Little London August/September 2015

little london

Jools Oliver On fashion, food and four kids

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • £3.99

CAROLE MIDDLETON creates a classic Disney party

SAFETY FIRST Your ultimate family first aid kit

KidZania!

Welcome to the hottest ticket in town

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WIN a 5« holiday in our Little London Awards

HATS OFF! TO YOUR BEST SUMMER HOLIDAY YET

SHOPPING • PLAYING • COOKING • EXPLORING

LETTING GO Raising an independent child

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NEWS

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Hanging Tents wingreen.co.uk

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1. IT’S OPEN! KIDZANIA.CO.UK 2. TYRRELL KATZ PIRATES BACKPACK £25.95 IGLOOKIDS.CO.UK 3. SILVER LILY STAR BOOTS £124 STELLAMACARTNEY.COM 4. BEA TOP £39 MISS-HALL.COM 5. LUGGAGE TAG MICKEY £9 SAMSONITE.CO.UK

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EDITOR’S LETTER

W

ith long summer days and the seemingly endless school holidays ahead, we’ve been rounding up our favourite ways to keep your little Londoners entertained and engaged. From Marina Fogle’s quest to install a trampoline (p.66) to Leonora Bamford’s colour-themed activity walk (p.62), we have something for everyone! For little bookworms, we’ve also selected our favourite summer reads (p.34), and we profile the brilliantly talented children’s author Lauren Child (p.36) as her first major career retrospective opens with the National Trust.

For those staying in the city this summer, London’s newest theme park, KidZania, will be top of the to-do list – both for parents in need of a few hours off and children keen to try their hand at various jobs. We were there on the long-awaited opening day to check out the professions on offer and find out more about how the educational angle is woven into playtime (p.96). Whether your little one wants to attempt some radio presenting, aircraft piloting or even midwifery, there is a whole world of work waiting for them!

Holidays are often a time to get together with wider family, for days out or longer 5

weekends, and one of the highlights is watching a tribe of cousins running around together, entertaining each other and generally bonding. Don’t miss father-of-two Alex Payne’s take on the role that cousins can play in a happy family dynamic (p.71).

As London Fashion Week gears up to celebrate the global icon that is Minnie Mouse, we can’t help but notice Mickey and Minnie everywhere at the moment!

Our contributing editor Carole Middleton has been busy translating this enduring trend into a classic Disney party (p.60) – not only will it appeal to all ages, boys and girls, it also manages to combine a dose of nostalgia with a current craze.

Fashion is never far from the agenda here at Little London HQ , and we’re thrilled to be talking to one of our favourite childrenswear designers Jools Oliver (p.30) about combining her designing work with bringing up four children. Hats off to her!

KATE FINNEY, EDITOR

Life is too short to wear boring clothes www.lazyfrancis.com

CON T E N T S

Did you know it's Charlie and Lola's 15th anniversary this year?

AUG/SE P T 20 15

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40 FEATURES 30 MY LITTLE LONDON

90 THE AGE DEBATE

We talk to mum-of-four, and wife to Jamie Oliver, about life as a London mum and her latest clothing collection

As the new school year approaches, Emma Oliver explores the differences between summer and autumn babies

34 BOOKS TO EXPLORE

96 LET’S PLAY PRETEND!

Little reads for the great outdoors

We grab ourselves a ticket to the hottest venue in town, as KidZania opens its doors

36 LAUREN’S INNER CHILD

We catch up with award-winning children’s author and illustrator Lauren Child

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SHOPPING 21 LITTLE LOVES

60 CLASSIC DISNEY PARTY WITH CAROLE MIDDLETON

Jazz up a room with this illuminated canvas

Carole Middleton shares her top tips on throwing a Disney-inspired birthday party

22 KIDS GO GLAMPING

66 JUMP AROUND!

25 ROLL UP, ROLL UP

Marina Fogle plummets into the world of trampoline shopping

Fabulous circus-themed interior products

71 HAPPY FAMILIES

Find the perfect school shoes

Sports presenter and dad of two, Alex Payne on the power of playtime with cousins PHOTOGRAPHER: ABI CAMPBELL MODEL: ARCHIE SHIRT, PETIT TRIBE. JACKET, LAZY FRANCIS. BOW, LAZY FRANCIS. TROUSERS, SCOTCH SHRUNK.

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75 A SMOOTHIE KIND OF LOVE

The Cooking Them Healthy ladies provide recipes for the most scrumptious smoothies 7

Be the coolest campers around

40 BEST FOOT FORWARD

42 BAG IT!

Our pick of the best carrying companions 45 PENCILS AT THE READY

Be top of the class with this stationery

CONTENTS

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little london EDITORIAL

EDITOR KATE FINNEY MANAGING EDITOR REBECCA MOORE SENIOR SUB EDITOR NATALIE MILNER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CAROLINE LEEPER

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS LEONORA BAMFORD, OLIVIA FALCON, MARINA FOGLE, CHIARA HUNT, CAROLE MIDDLETON

DESIGN GROUP ART EDITOR CHLOË COLLYER SENIOR DESIGNER EMILY WELLER DESIGNER MARIA SAGUN

PUBLISHING PUBLISHER ANNABELLA WARD ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER STEPHANIE ORGAN COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR VICKI GAVIN MARKETING MANAGER WILLIAM DELMONT DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER JAMES DOBSON

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DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR ANDREEA DRAGOI

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER LESLEY MCDIARMID SALES EXECUTIVE AMY THACKER

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Birthdays get the Disney-magic touch

SALES EXECUTIVE KATIE AMPS MANAGING DIRECTOR PAUL DOBSON DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR STEVE ROSS LITTLE LONDON IS PUBLISHED BY THE CHELSEA

STYLE

REGULARS 13 NEWS

Fashion takes a carnival twist

Updating you on all things big in kid world

56 SHOP THE SHOOT

62 GET CRAFTY

Grab the best items from our photoshoot

Leonora Bamford and Nanny Anita share the best ways to spend summer days 87 OLIVIA’S LITTLE LUXURIES

The round-up for little globetrotters 82 TREASURE TROVE

103 AGENDA

A family adventure to Martinhal in Portugal, plus the ultimate guide to packing those first aid essentials from Dr Chiara Hunt

What’s on in London this summer

EDUCATION

109 GROUPS AND CLASSES

Activities for your little one 110 CHANCE TO WIN

Keeping you in the know

Win Sunuva swimwear vouchers for splashing around in the sun

92 LETTING GO

112 BOUTIQUES

Father-of-two, Sam Flatman, on raising an independent child

Our guide to shopping in the capital

95 MEET THE HEAD

We speak to Cécile Roederer, founder of online store Smallable and mum to six-year-old Charles

89 EDUCATION NEWS

We catch up with Ben Evans, head of Edge Grove School in Hertfordshire

EMAIL: EDITOR@LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK TEL: 020 7349 3700 FAX: 020 7349 3701 LITTLE LONDON ISSN 2055-3366

Help your child unwind, from yoga classes to the best books and games

81 TRAVEL NEWS

PLACE, LONDON SW3 3TQ WEB: LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

46 SHOW- STOPPERS

TRAVEL

MAGAZINE COMPANY LTD, JUBILEE HOUSE, 2 JUBILEE

114 THE BUSINESS

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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CONTRIBUTORS

GEORGIE SOS KIN

MARINA FOGLE

EMMA OLIVER

Food guru

Parenting writer

Journalist and blogger

Where’s home in London?

Whereabouts do you live in London?

Where do you live?

We live in Shepherd’s Bush.

We live in North Kensington, overlooking a park and when I open my shutters in the morning all I see is green.

We live in Haslemere, Surrey.

Your first school memory?

I remember standing on my front steps having my photo taken in my uniform feeling very grown up and proud.

As a child how did you spend your summer holidays?

We often went to Cornwall for ‘bucket and spade’ holidays with other family friends and later went to France where my father lived.

As a mum-of-three, what’s the most special thing about motherhood?

The feeling of unconditional love, all the kisses and watching them literally grow and learn in front of your eyes.

Try Georgie’s smoothie recipes on p.75

What’s your earliest memory?

Going slightly feral during summer holidays in Austria. My mother is from Salzburg and my grandparents had a farm where we ran around barefoot, building treehouses, herding cattle and drinking milk warm from the cows.

Did you love trampolining as a child?

I only ever trampolined at school for those precious two minutes we were all allowed.

I look at my children in envy as they spend hours bouncing away – I’d have loved it.

This issue Marina goes trampoline shopping on p.66

What do you remember about school?

I remember the milk, in a bottle with a silver foil top. It was warm with thick cream and tasted horrible. But I mainly remember the day that Danny Allen got the cane.

How did you spend your summer days?

I remember playing with all the other kids that lived on the street, we all had skateboards, and would get a tow holding onto the back of the milk float!

The best thing about being a mum?

I’ve found motherhood incredibly testing, but for every challenge they pose, they also bring great delight.

Emma talks school issues on p.90

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CHECK YOUR FAVOURITE TOY RETAILER FOR THE FULL LINE OF HASBRO’S NEW FIGURES, VEHICLES AND PLAYSETS!

© 2015 MARVEL

© 2015 HASBRO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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NEWS

little NEWS SUMMER AT

HARRODS

Head to Harrods for an abundance of summer-themed fun, where kids get creative!

Kick-starting the action is the Summer Holiday Workshop – Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July – perfect for those aged five to 10 years, little visitors will get the chance to design a passport cover and summer hat, plus take home a goodie bag of treats. In August, inspire mini Picassos with the art workshop where they can create their very own canvas to take home, while in September it’s back to school time and Harrods will be lending a helping hand so children are feeling all prepared and raring to go! All events will take place at Harrods Rewards, Third Floor.

To become a Mini Harrods member and book spaces at the events, email: miniharrods@harrods.com

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NEWS

BOOKS

KITCHEN DISCO “When the sun goes down, the Kitchen Disco starts up – and all the fruit come out to play”. Better known as David Cameron’s speechwriter, Clare Foges’ first book is a true success. Hilarious and beautifully illustrated. Faber & Faber, £6.99

Get out and about with the National Trust's exciting challenges Beach-print fun from Boden

50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU’RE 11 3/4 With this handy notebook by their side, children can jot down discoveries, stick in their finds and tick off all adventures that the National Trust has put together.

National Trust Books, £5

DAD ACADEMY

It’s all about the quality of time that you spend with your kids. So notonthehighstreet.com has come up with a plan to encourage busy dads to make those special moments count.

Check out the Dadpreneur webpage for more, and make sure you don’t miss the free, interactive workshops. notonthehighstreet.com

PENCIL IT IN

Busy home? Invest in one of the new 2016 Organised Mum calendars or diaries and run your family’s activities with military precision. boxhousepublishing.com

PAPER ZOO Using the hidden envelope of materials at the back, kids are encouraged to tear, glue and draw designs that can be slot into the book’s pocket pages to create colourful and wacky pictures.

Thames & Hudson, £14.95

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NEWS

ACTIVITY BOXES

SEASIDE STYLING

This summer, look right at home among the sand, sea and gulls with the new Mark Hearld collection for Boden. His beachprint designs are wonderfully British and there’s something for every member of the family. And no bother if you’re not heading to the sea – chuck on one of his creations, grab a Mr Whippy and you’re basically on the beach. boden.co.uk

SCOOT, SCOOT

Make a memorable entrance at the start of this school term on one of these wheelie numbers. They come in all sizes, too. Mini Micro for three to five years, Maxi Micro for six to 12 and even adult size – so you don’t miss out on the fun.

Micro Scooters will ensure the whole family can travel to school in style. micro-scooters.co.uk

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BKD BAKING KITS

LITTLE PASSPORTS

OGLEE POGLEE

Do you have the next Jamie Oliver or Nigella tottering around your kitchen? Then check out BKD’s baking kits.

Designed to make cooking fun and easy, each kit contains recipes and ingredients for a range of sweet treats – from Little Monster cupcakes to Zesty Lemon biscuit pops. These creative kits even include step-by-step video tutorials for stress-free baking and decorating. bkd-london.com

Whisk your child away on an international adventure in the comfort of your own home. Order a Little Passport and a mini suitcase will be delivered to your door, packed with adventurous goodies for your child to play with. An additional package will also be sent every month, each filled with different destination-themed activities. Boxes are age specific, from three to 12 year olds. littlepassports.com/uk

Who’d have thought there could be so much fun packed into one little box? These craft kits from Oglee Poglee contain a ready-made escapade that enable children to bring their own ideas to life – with an emphasis on ‘open-ended’ creative play. Inside you’ll find a storybook and plenty of arts and crafts – all the materials needed to fuel your child’s creativity and more! For children aged four to seven years. ogleepoglee.co.uk

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NEWS

Join in the Disney craze

TURN YOUR KIDS’ ARTWORK INTO KEEPSAKES

MINI MASTERPIECE Blue Almond’s new collaboration with Spanish artist Javier Atela draws inspiration from your child’s artwork, and turns their creations into mini-masterpieces. bluealmonds.co.uk

MINNIE STYLE

If you're as crazy about Minnie as we are, turn to page 60 for Disney party ideas

Move over Mickey, it’s Minnie’s time to shine… You may have noticed those legendary ears popping up all over the place in recent months, and there’s more fun on the horizon. In homage to Minnie’s enduring influence on fashion, she’s getting her very own ‘Minnie Style’ exhibition during London Fashion Week this September. And you can get in on the action. Modelcurator, Georgia May Jagger is asking fashion fans to share their ‘Minnie’ interpretations on Instagram using the hashtag #minniestyleuk

MAD IN ENGLAND Kids can say the funniest things, and their drawings can be comic genius!

Mad in England capture precious doodles with its needlepoint pillow designs and 10% of every purchase is donated to Meningitis Now. madinengland.com

DOODLE NEST

AWAY WITH THE FAIRIES…

We just love these beautifully hand-crafted, magical fairy doors from My Own Fairy. Each comes with a magic key; bottle of magic fairy dust; a letter from the fairies; online fairy book and membership to the exclusive fairy club. £19.99, myownfairy.com

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If you’ve stock-piled hundreds of your little one’s drawings and paintings, turn to Doodle Nest.

Whether it’s cards, collages or an album that you’re after, they will ensure those little creations will last. doodlenest.co.uk

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* £30 off £300 minimum spend, offer ends 18th June 2015 and cannot be used alongside other offers. Subject to availability.

Who says cool design is only for grown-ups? Visit made.com/kids to see our brand new kids range, crafted by expert makers and talented designers.

£30 GIFT* WITH CODE BABY

NEWS

TEACH YOUR CHILD TO RIDE A BIKE Want to get your child started on a bycycle this summer?

Here are balance bike company FirstBIKE’s top tips

1

Always start with a balance bike.

Balance bikes have no pedals or stabilisers and are much lighter than pedal bikes. Children use their feet to balance and propel themselves along. One of the biggest advantages of this method is that children as young as two learn to balance on their own without coaching or unnecessary stress.

2

Start on the flat and work your way up. The ideal place to ride a balance bike is a park or area with no traffic. Begin on flat terrain and gradually upgrade to small hills.

3

Teach them to use a brake.

Around the age of two to three, children are able to operate a hand brake provided it is gentle enough for thier little fingers. Show your child how it works and motivate him or her

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

to practise braking. A good tip is to draw a line on the pavement and challenge the child to stop on it.

firmly planted on the ground with knees slightly bent. This way, they’ll be able to properly push off, slow down.

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Always wear a helmet. The sooner your child gets used to it, the better. Shop for a helmet together, and let the little biker express his or her opinion. Make it a treat!

5

Look for safety features like a ‘steering limiter’. Bikes with handlebars that limit the steering angle help little ones with direction and prevent rough falls.

6

Choose a bike with an adjustable seat. On balance bikes, children immediately benefit from the security of having their feet on the ground, so it is important that the seat is easily adjustable to their height. When the child is sitting, both feet should be

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Get the right safety gear. Wearing bright colours or a reflective safety vest is recommended and will ensure they are highly visible. As for shoes, balance bikes are called ‘run bikes’ in many languages, which means that flip flops will not do – toes should be covered and ankles fixed.

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Transfer to a pedal bike when the time is right. Around the age of four or five depending on their height and skill – children can smoothly transfer to a pedal bike without ever needing to use stabilisers. The only skill they still need to learn is pedalling, however, at the age of four or five, it should be a natural transition.

first-bike.uk

Design: Alf Vegard Fjelland, Hilde Angelfoss, Hans-Cato Slotterøy, Oskar Johansen, Eivind Halseth

Get ready for summer adventures!

Keeps your baby cool.™ Stokke® Stroller Summer Kit The Summer Kit is designed to protect your baby’s sensitive skin on sunny days. Thoughtful details such as extra ventilation zippers for optimal air flow and fabrics with UPF 50 protection, keep your baby cool even in warm temperatures so that you can enjoy outdoor summer adventures together.

Faded Pink stokke.com

Salty Blue

Sandy Beige

SHOPPING

little loves…

Bring the bright lights of the carnival home with this canvas

Perfect for those who don’t want to miss out! Light up your home with this fabulously fun canvas featuring 20 battery-operated, mini LED lights which create a magical 3D effect. Tailor it to your space by choosing which way the arrow points, or use it as a night light.

LARGE ‘FUN THIS WAY’ CANVAS £49.95 ILLUMINATEDCANVAS.CO.UK

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SHOPPING

FEATHER GARLAND £8.50 TALKINGTABLES.CO.UK

KIDS GO GLAMPING THE COOLEST CAMPING KIT AROUND TO TRANSFORM YOUR ADVENTURES INTO THE WILD THIS SUMMER

POPCORN PAN £19.99 THEGLAMCAMPINGCOMPANY.COM HUNTER BOOTS £45 ALEXANDALEXA.COM

SLEEPING BAG £45 WINGREEN.CO.UK

GREAT PLAINS INDIAN HEADDRESS £55 NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM

LOW-RISE WELLIES £25.95 KIDSEN.CO.UK

POLLY RAINCOAT £124 STELLAMCARTNEY.COM ROUNDERS SET £28.95 GARDENOASIS.CO.UK

WOODEN CATAPULT £8.50 TALKINGTABLES.CO.UK

ZOOBUG SUNGLASSES £60 CHILDRENSALON.COM

SOFT GALLERY JUMPER £53 ALEXANDALEXA.COM

HURRICANE LAMP £20 CATHKIDSTON.COM

COSMO MINI RUCKSACK £65 LUNALOVELONDON.COM DRINKS COOLER FROM £34.50 THEGLAMCAMPINGCOMPANY.COM

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Keep the kids happy this summer and book them a camping adventure they will never forget. “Did you know 91% of kids say spending time exploring the outdoors with their parents would make them happy?�* From beach-side breaks to country retreats, our Club Site network offers it all.

With our friendly Holiday Site Managers on hand you can rest assured of a perfect hassle-free camping experience, wherever your next adventure takes you.

Talk to our friendly experts on 0204 7798 3808 or visit www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/regionalcampsites

*Get kids camping 2015: research conducted by the Institute of Education at Plymouth University.

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ROLL UP, ROLL UP! It’s show time so put on a top performance…

The circus is coming to town and what better place to start than a kid’s bedroom?

ANIMAL PARADE WALLPAPER 10M £70 HIBOUHOME.COM

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MIX AND MATCH ANIMALS £23.99 TOYELLA.COM

MIMI’LOU PAPER LANTERN £17.01 SMALLABLE.COM

Little ones love horsing around!

HOLD YOUR HORSES £145 FIELDCANDY.COM

PIERROT CLOWN HAT £15 ELFIELONDON.COM

ELEPHANT GYSPY RUG £195 BOBOKIDS.CO.UK STORY BOX CIRCUS £19.99 TOYELLA.COM

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*TERMS AND CONDITIONS: THE PRIZE IS FOR A FIVE-NIGHT STAY IN A JUNIOR SUITE SEA VIEW AT SANI BEACH HOTEL, GREECE, ON A HALF-BOARD BASIS (BREAKFAST AND LUNCH OR DINNER). FLIGHTS ARE NOT INCLUDED. THE HOLIDAY IS FOR TWO ADULTS AND TWO CHILDREN AND INCLUDES AIRPORT TRANSFERS FROM THESSALONIKI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SKG). THE HOLIDAY MUST BE TAKEN BETWEEN 20 SEPTEMBER AND 31 OCTOBER 2015 OR 1 APRIL AND 20 MAY 2016 AND IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. THE HOLIDAY CANNOT BE TAKEN DURING SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS SEE LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK/SANI-RESORT-TERMS-AND-CONDITIONS.

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Jools Oliver has just launched a new collection for Little Bird

INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW

The family celebrate the launch of Little Bird's new collection

MY LITTLE LONDON

JOOLS OLIVER WITH HER LATEST LITTLE BIRD COLLECTION ABOUT TO HIT THE HIGH STREET, WE CHAT TO MUM-OF-FOUR AND WIFE TO CELEBRITY CHEF JAMIE OLIVER ABOUT LONDON FAMILY LIFE

We live in Primrose Hill, we all love Primrose Hill park and we spend a huge amount of time just playing there.

said how they found it really hard for find great boy’s clothes so it got me thinking about designing a children’s collection. When Mothercare approached me in 2011, it just felt like perfect timing and I agreed.

And where do you go when you’re treating yourself?

Your collection is quite retro – where do you get your inspiration from?

I really relish the moments when I actually make it to the gym, I love yoga, running and of course boot camp. I know it doesn’t sound like a treat, but having that time to stay fit is so important to me.

I am inspired by my childhood – memories of growing up in the 70s with my sisters. I love 70s unisex styles with hints of LA retro cool.

Where do you live in London and what do you love most about the area?

Where do you go to escape the city?

We are very lucky to have a family house in the countryside in Essex. We go there most weekends.

Do you design with your kids in mind?

I definitely design with Buddy and Petal in mind as they are still the right age for the collection.

How did your children’s collection, Little Bird, come about?

Do you have a favourite piece from the new collection?

When I had Buddy, lots of my friends had

I love the jersey flared dungarees

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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which can be worn with one of the classic Little Bird striped long-sleeve tees – such a retro look!

As a child, what did you love wearing?

I used to wear a lot of hand-me-downs from my sisters, which is just what I want people to do with Little Bird.

What is the most important thing to you when you’re creating a new design?

I want children to look like children, not mini-adults, also lovely fabrics and quirky detailing and design. I’ve recently added some limited edition adult T-shirts into the mix.

Who does the cooking at home?

It all depends on who is home and what we want to eat. Of course, we love Jamie’s cooking;

INTERVIEW

Jools’ retro designs reflect her 70s childhood

Jamie is an amazing father and an equally amazing cook.

Do the children like to get involved in the kitchen?

The children love cooking, too. It’s so important to involve them so they know how things are made, what’s healthy eating and what’s not.

Off to Primrose Hill park for the day...

It’s a lot of work and I go to bed early and get up early so I can fit everything in, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

And what are your three hot tips for London days out with the children?

Children always relish being outside, so a trip to your local Cute fi nd from Little Bird

park is definitely a winner. I think Londoners are so lucky to have all these wonderful museums right on their doorstep and there are so many things to see at local theatres. My top tip would be to make sure you plan where you’re going and how you’re getting there, where to eat and definitely wear flat shoes. L

mothercare.com

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Jools started Little Bird after she had her son Buddy and was approached

by Mothercare

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

With four children, after-school activities to get to, and your design work to juggle, how do you fit everything in?

BOOKS AND MULTIMEDIA

2-4 YEARS

5-7 YEARS

8-10 YEARS

Grrrrr!

My Book of Bike Activities

BY ROB BIDDULPH

BY CATHERINE BRUZZONE

The Owls of Blossom Wood: A Magical Beginning

Fred realises the value of teamwork when a rival tries to scupper his chances of winning the Best Bear contest. A clever rhyming story about friendship.

With features on safety; creative projects; bike maintenance; puzzles; and games, there’s something here for every young cycling enthusiast.

A thoroughly entertaining animal adventure series for emerging readers.

Prepare to be enchanted.

Harper Collins • £12.99

b small • £6.99

Scholastic • £4.99

Herman’s Holiday

A First Book of Nature

Holiday Stories

BY TOM PERCIVAL

BY NICOLA DAVIES AND MARK HEARLD

BY ENID BLYTON

Join Herman and Henry on their first ever camping trip. With hilarious misadventures and fun postcard flaps, this is a story to share over and over.

Stunning illustrations complement Nicola’s poetic and informative introduction to the environment. A charming gift for every child to treasure.

A vibrant, contemporary cover brings this beautifully curated collection of summer-themed stories to a new audience. A holiday must.

Bloomsbury • £6.99

Walker • £12.99

Hodder Children’s Books • £6.99

The Little Gardener

Nature’s Day

Wilds of the Wolf

BY EMILY HUGHES

BY KAY MAGUIRE AND DANIELLE KROLL

BY STEVE BACKSHALL

A pocket-sized gardener struggles to tend his magnificent garden all by himself. A mindful classic that will be shared for many generations to come.

This gentle exploration of the seasons encourages discovery. Engaging bitesized snippets of information make this the perfect book to enjoy as a family.

Saker and Sinter continue their quest to save the world’s endangered animals in the bitter cold of an Arctic winter, in this third Falcon Chronicles adventure.

Flying Eye Books • £11.99

Wide Eyed Editions • £14.99

Orion Children’s Books • £10.99

BY CATHERINE COE

This classic tale is sure to inspire green-fingered adventures

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RUNNING HEAD

MULTIMEDIA

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ROUNDS: FRANKLIN FROG Tap and swipe Franklin to make him jump, swim, catch flies and transform from a tadpole into a frog. The first in a fun and innovative new series of interactive life-science apps.

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NOSY CROW • £3.99 • ITUNES

to Explore EMMA O’DONOVAN ROUNDS UP THE BEST BOOKS FOR DISCOVERING THE GREAT OUTDOORS

CD

The Famous Five Short Story Collection

BY ENID BLYTON

A mysterious light on Kirrin Island, a stolen safe, a runaway horse, and a whole lot of friendship and fun.

Hodder • £7.99 • waterstones.com

DVD

Steve Backshall’s Deadly Top 10 Introducing a fantastic variety of animals in their natural habitats. Steve Backshall is utterly engaging and guaranteed to inspire a love of nature. £8.99 • bbcshop.com

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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RUNNING HEAD

LAUREN’S INNER CHILD

AS BESTSELLING CHILDREN’S WRITER AND ILLUSTRATOR LAUREN CHILD CELEBRATES THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY OF HER FIRST CHARLIE AND LOLA BOOK, SHE TALKS TO JESSICA JONZEN ABOUT HER OWN CHILDHOOD 36

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

INTERVIEW

I

f anyone was born to become a children’s author and illustrator, it was Lauren Child. Her uncanny ability to convincingly convey the thought processes, malapropisms and innocent wonder of the very young means that her characters have a cross-generational appeal. Children love her books because they can truly LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

empathise with the characters; parents love them because they are so sagely observed.

Her illustrations, too, with their exaggerated proportions, wide-set eyes and use of collage also have a childish appeal. And then, of course, there is her surname...

Child, 48, is the author of more than 30 children’s books that have sold more than 37

seven million copies worldwide. In 2010 she was awarded an MBE for services to literature. She is probably most widely known for the Charlie and Lola series, but her books include the Clarice Bean series, I Want a Pet, That Pesky Rat, Hubert Horatio Bartle BobtonTrent, a beautiful version of The Princess and the Pea, a new edition of Pippi Longstocking

The Art of Lauren Child: Adventures with Charlie, Lola and Friends exhibition runs from 18 July to 6 September, 11am to 5pm at Mottisfont, Hampshire. There are themed activity weekends on 18 and 19 July, 8 and 9 August, 22 and 23 August. Lauren Child will make a personal appearance on Saturday 18 July (11am and 2pm), to read and sign books. For more information go online at: nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont or call 01794 340757.

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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES, OSKAR PROCTOR, LAUREN CHILD, POLLY BORLAND, PUFFIN, ORCHARD BOOKS, HARPER COLLINS

and three short novels about the feisty third child in a slightly bonkers family.

In 2000, Child published her first book about the ever patient Charlie and his endlessly inquisitive sister, Lola, the wonderfully titled I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato. The book was an immediate hit and was awarded the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal. It spawned a BAFTA-award-winning television series, now in its 10th year, of which Child is an associate producer.

In 2012, Child became a mother herself when she and her partner, the criminal barrister Adrian Darbishire, adopted a twoyear-old girl from Mongolia, called Tuesday.

They live in north London and Tuesday is now five and a constant source of inspiration.

“She has given me lots of other ideas but I’ve realised that she’s much more exaggerated in her speech patterns, and what she thinks about, than anything I’ve ever written about,” she says. “You couldn’t really write exactly as [children] speak and think because it would just become too crazy to read. But it’s ever so nice to hear, I love listening to her.”

Child’s books demonstrate a great deal of empathy with children. Does she think parents expect too much from their children?

“I think sometimes we underestimate them more than anything,” she says. “[Children] take in everything, so even if they don’t necessarily understand what’s being said, they understand the atmosphere. I think it’s better to explain and include them in things. That’s what I’ve always been very aware of when writing my books, hoping that they’re not patronising and that they understand adults, too. When I write Clarice Bean, I want readers to understand that parents have a hard job as well as children. You don’t always know what you’re doing.” Never a truer word was said. L

and the hugely popular Ruby Redfort series, a spin-off from Clarice Bean.

This summer, Child marks Charlie and Lola’s 15th anniversary with her first retrospective. The exhibition, at the National Trust’s idyllic country house estate Mottisfont in Hampshire, will feature 50 original artworks from Child’s personal collection, many of which have never been seen before.

The middle of three girls, Child grew up in Wiltshire where her father led the art department at Marlborough College and her mother was a primary school teacher. She believes birth order profoundly affected her.

“One of the reasons I wrote my picture book, The New Small Person, was because of the memory of having a younger sibling. It felt like everything changed because I didn’t have a position,” she says.

“You’re constantly being told that you’re not allowed to stay up because you’re not the oldest and you don’t get things first. But you’re not the youngest. I have friends who are very concerned about their middle child.”

Child lacked confidence in herself, but says, “Luckily for me I did have confidence in my drawing, not because I thought I was marvellous, but I was told by my father that I was good at it – and he told me enough times that I believed him, my mother, too.”

Does she think that it’s important for children’s self-esteem to praise them?

“I don’t think it’s about being praised constantly, but I think having somebody who is incredibly encouraging about my drawing and my ideas was really powerful. I always felt like I was wrong, and I think children need to know that they are cherished no matter what.”

This inner conflict led Child through a somewhat desultory early adulthood. She left art college in Manchester after a year, was left disappointed by a City and Guilds mixed media course and drifted from job to job living hand-to-mouth in London. She painted dots in some of Damien Hirst’s famous spot paintings, made furniture, decorated china, dressed windows at Harvey Nichols and set up a lampshade company called, rather fabulously, Chandeliers For The People. It sounds suitably bohemian but, she has said, she felt “terribly lost”.

Child persevered until she eventually developed the idea for Clarice Bean. Clarice was initially intended to be a marketing vehicle for the children’s products Child hoped to design, but in fact the character began Child’s literary career. Clarice Bean, That’s Me found a publisher after four years and was followed by two more picture books

l am A LITTLE bit

little for school

Starting school is one of life’s big steps.

That’s why we’re here to help.

Book your fitting appointment with one of our team of experts: clarks.co.uk/first-school Clarks and the Clarks logo are registered trademarks of C & J Clark International Limited.

BACK TO SCHOOL

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PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN

P

reparing for a new school year can be stressful for all those concerned, featuring mammoth to-do lists and trips to find everything from the perfect pencil case to the coolest school bag.

Inevitably, the children’s feet have grown over the summer holidays, so new school shoes are also the order of the day.

With endless options on the high street and online, it is important to bear in mind how your routine might affect the selection. If you’re rushed for time in the mornings, consider Velcro or slip-on shoes, or for a more traditional look, go for laces or a classic buckle.

The shoes also need to be hard-wearing. “A typical child will wear their new school shoes for the coming year for over a thousand hours, taking around a million steps during this time,” says Bob Hardy, Clarks’ shoe fitting expert.

Many parents make the mistake of buying shoes a little large in the hope that they’ll last longer, but this can be detrimental to foot 7development. “Their feet will grow at least 5mm in length and 3mm to 5mm in width,” adds Bob, who advises seeking out durable shoes with in-built growing room.

8Press your thumb across the front of the shoe to check that your child can wiggle their toes but that their heel is also comfortably in place; and try to get their feet measured professionally.

Finding a halfway house between what you (and the school) deem suitable and what appeals to your mini fashionistas can be tricky!

But we’ve rounded up some of the best, that will look the part both in the classroom and the playground.

BACK TO SCHOOL

BEST FOOT FORWARD WITH A NEW SCHOOL YEAR ON THE HORIZON, FINDING THE PERFECT SCHOOL SHOES IS TOP OF THE AGENDA

FORMAL LACE UP £26 NEXT.CO.UK LONNIE VELCRO £46 STEP2WO.COM

FRESHFEET COATED LEATHER £26 MARKSANDSPENCER.COM

BRANDO BROGUE £68 YOUNGSOLES.CO.UK

ROSIE T-BAR £65 YOUNGSOLES.CO.UK

MASTER LOAFER £76 STEP2WO.COM

UNDERSTANDING GROWING FEET From five years up, your child will dramatically improve their coordination and fluency of movement. At five, they’ll have better control of their speed and be able to make more complex movements.

The tendency to bear their weight on the insides of their feet – called pronation – should have corrected itself naturally. Their heel striking during walking will be more obvious.

At this stage, their weight will transfer down the outside of the foot, the front will touch down, and the weight will move to the inside of the foot and the toes will push off for the next step.

As their feet become stable, your child will also become more active at school. There’ll be playtime with friends, energetic PE lessons and all

sorts of exciting new sports to put them through their paces.

At this age, many children prefer trainers. It’s important for the healthy foot development that these are properly fitted. As well as allowing their movement to develop naturally, kids’ trainers need to be robust enough to protect your child’s feet while they’re practising to be the next sporting superstar! clarks.co.uk

CHARLIE MONK £70 YOUNGSOLES.CO.UK

BLACK LOAFERS £26 NEXT.CO.UK

DAISY BETH JNR £40 CLARKS.CO.UK

AFTER-SCHOOL SHOES

CRAZY PECK BOOTS £34 CLARKS.CO.UK

WINNIE THE POOH £32 VANS.CO.UK

DESERTBOOT £40 CLARKS.CO.UK

LITTLE BIRD SHOES £15 MOTHERCARE.COM

GRACIE EYE JNR £26 CLARKS.CO.UK

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BACK TO SCHOOL

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Pack them off to school with the ultimate home for all their classroom essentials 2

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1. BACKPACKS £25 PAPERCHASE.CO.UK 2. DRAW STRING £22.90 THEFEATHERKIDS.CO.UK 3. SKIP-HOP INSULATED LUNCH BAG £13.95 HAPPYBAGS.CO.UK 4. SAUSAGE DOGS £28 CATHKIDSTON.CO.UK 5. HAPPY JACKSON £19.95 WILDANDWOLF.COM 6. ROBOTS £28 CATHKIDSTON.CO.UK 7. TYRRELL KATZ £25.95 IGLOOKIDS.CO.UK 8. MI-PAC ALL STARS £21.99 JOHNLEWIS.COM 9. PEANUTS 11" SATCHEL £140 CAMBRIDGESATCHEL.COM

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l am A LITTLE bit

little for school

Starting school is one of life’s big steps.

That’s why we’re here to help.

Book your fitting appointment with one of our team of experts: clarks.co.uk/first-school Clarks and the Clarks logo are registered trademarks of C & J Clark International Limited.

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PENCILS AT THE READY ENSURE YOUR LITTLE LONDONER IS TRULY DESK PROUD THIS TERM WITH OUR STATIONERY EDIT 2

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1. STATIONERY PAPERCHASE.CO.UK 2. RULER £4.95 DOTCOMGIFTSHOP.COM 3. LABEL EMBOSSER £8.99 RYMAN.CO.UK 4. ROBOTS PENCIL CASE £8 CATHKIDSTON.CO.UK 5. MERCATO WATER BOTTLE £6.50 PAPERCHASE.CO.UK 6. NOTEBOOK £8.95 WILDANDWOLF.COM 7. SMENCILS £6 GREATLITTLEREWARDS.CO.UK 8. ORIGAMI NOTEPAPER £9.50 LOLLIPOPDESIGNS.CO.UK 9. PEN £2.75 PAPERCHASE.CO.UK 10. CARRY CADDY £26 GLTC.CO.UK 11. NEON BRACELET KIT £9.50 TOPSHOP.COM 12. PAPER CLIPS £2.50 PAPERCHASE.CO.UK 13. SHARPENER £14 HEDGEHOGSHOP.CO.UK

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THIS PAGE: JAKE WEARS TROUSERS, €55, MR.UKY. TOP, €55, SOFT GALLERY (PART OF SET). MATILDA WEARS TOP, £29.90, SCOTCH R’BELLE. RIGHT PAGE: POPPY WEARS TOP, £105, CHLOÉ AT CHILDRENSALON. SKIRT, £39, BILLIEBLUSH AT HOUSE OF FRASER. HAT, £40, LITTLE MARC JACOBS AT ALEXANDALEXA. SOCKS, £7, MARKS & SPENCER. SHOES, £22, NEXT.

SHOW STOPPERS

PHOTOGRAPHER: ABI CAMPBELL ART DIRECTION AND STYLING: EVA DZIEDZIC DE AGUIRRE HAIR AND MAKEUP: AMY ATKINS

THIS PAGE: POPPY WEARS CATSUIT, £90, LAZY FRANCIS. HEADWEAR, £52, LAZY FRANCIS. SHOES, £120, STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS AT ALEXANDALEXA. RIGHT PAGE: JEMIMA WEARS SWEATSHIRT, £38, MINI RODINI. SKIRT, £44, BILLIEBLUSH AT HOUSE OF FRASER. ISIS WEARS SWEATSHIRT, €59, SOFT GALLERY. SHORTS, €65, LITTLE REMIX.

THIS PAGE: ISIS WEARS SHIRTDRESS, €66, SOFT GALLERY. HAT, £42.95, SCOTCH R’BELLE. LEGGINGS, £6, NEXT. SHOES, MODEL’S OWN. RIGHT PAGE: JEMIMA WEARS COAT, £120, LAZY FRANCIS. JEANS, €100, LITTLE REMIX. SHOES, MODEL’S OWN.

LEFT PAGE: POPPY WEARS DRESS, £270, LAZY FRANCIS. SOCKS, £7, MARKS & SPENCER. SHOES, £120, STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS AT ALEXANDALEXA. THIS PAGE: ARCHIE WEARS SHIRT, £50, PETIT TRIBE. JACKET, SET FROM £169, LAZY FRANCIS. BOW, £34, LAZY FRANCIS. TROUSERS, £54.95, SCOTCH SHRUNK.

THIS PAGE: JEMIMA WEARS DRESS, £59, SOFT GALLERY AT MONKEYMCCOY. HAT, £25, LITTLE ELEVEN PARIS AT ALEXANDALEXA. RIGHT PAGE: MATILDA WEARS CARDIGAN, £54.97, SCOTCH R’BELLE. TOP, £43, MINI RODINI. SKIRT STYLIST’S OWN. SHOES AS BEFORE.

Photographic assistants: Chris Butchart and Alessandro de Besi. Stylist’s assistant: Vladimir Parrales Melendez. Location: Shoot Factory, Blackheath.

With thanks to photographer’s agency Roxy and Jack and model agencies Grace and Galor and Kids London.

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Dazzle and delight… look the part and celebrate the summer in true carnival spirit 16

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1. GARMENT DYE CHINOS, FROM £9.50, NEXT 2. WESTERN DENIM SHIRT, £19.95, GAP 3. GRAPHIC STAR JUMPER, €39.95, MOLO 4. BOW TIE, £4.99, ZARA 5. DOUBLE-STRAP SHOES, FROM £11, NEXT 6. T-SHIRT, £3.50, BHS 7. ADAM VELVET JACKET, £45, MONSOON 8. TWO FLOWERS HAIRBAND, £2.99, ZARA 9. KIN PRINTED LEGGINGS, FROM £8, JOHN LEWIS 10. SEQUIN PRINT SWEATSHIRT, £12.99, ZARA 11. FADED DENIM SHORTS, £15.99, ZARA 12. TOP AND SKIRT, FROM £22, NEXT 13. GLITTER SLIP ON PUMP, £17, MONSOON 14. SEQUIN SKATER SKIRT, FROM £40, JIGSAW 15. DENIM SHIRT WITH POCKET, £12.99, ZARA 16. SANDALS WITH BOW, £17.99, ZARA

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ADVERTORIAL

Sarah now gets much more time to spend with her two boys

me&i clothing is cool and ethical

SCANDI-STYLE WORKING WE TALK TO SARAH WARNER ABOUT JUGGLING MOTHERHOOD AND A CAREER

F

ive years ago, mother of two boys, Sarah Warner, was faced with the difficult decision of returning to work. Like most mums, Sarah wanted to earn money but not be starved of motherhood. After attending a me&i party with friends, Sarah was told by the host more about the Scandinavian company and the work opportunities they offer.

What made you decide to work for me&i?

After the birth of my second son, I didn’t want to go back to long office hours and commuting as I’d hardly see my children.

One evening I went to a clothes party at a friend’s. Sophie, the host, told me about how she had started selling me&i clothes

me&i parties offer parents a sociable shopping option

after being made redundant and how she’d continued through the pregnancy of her third child, so I decided to find out more.

What are your working hours like now?

I work when my bigger boy is at school and the little one is asleep. Many of my new connections are at the school gate or from our regular playgroups. I only need the odd hour here and there for emails and marketing and then I do one to two parties a week.

Had you always been interested in children’s fashion?

I’ve always loved fashion, and now my family is better dressed than ever before, as there is the perk of staff discounts too.

What are the benefits of your new working lifestyle?

It’s been great for my social life. I get to go out and meet my old friends more often and I’m making new friends as well. And because my socialising actually brings in money, my husband is very happy too! If we want to take an extra holiday I just make sure to book in some extra parties. It’s great to have that flexibility, not just in how I schedule my working time but also as to how much I earn.

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Did you come from a background in sales?

Before I started with me&i I’d never sold a thing, but I’ve found that selling a great product which I can be passionate about is all that it takes. Because the clothes are ethically produced I can be 100% behind the brand and that makes a real difference when selling the products. There was a full programme of training before I started, which really helped my confidence, plus I get continuous support from both my coach and my colleagues. I’m developing as a person and the business is continuing to grow too.

How would you summarise your work-life balance now?

It’s definitely been a case of no looking back for me. I’ve found something I really love doing and it fits perfectly into my life! Five years ago I never thought I’d be in a position to say this, but I have a great work-life balance! I’ve found a set-up where work fits round my family – not the other way round – and it ticks all the boxes for me. L To find out more about the company me&i and the opportunities they offer for mothers, visit the website at: meandi.com

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The

ONDON Karting Co.

Kids karting parties for children of 4-11yrs to experience the thrill of motorsport with an exclusive racing event!

We have venues in Battersea & Dulwich, or we could even come direct to your garden?

At Elves and Ovens we know how precious the time is whilst your little one grows up and with that in mind each birthday is something special to celebrate.

Elves and Oven’s provide an array of services from themed ‘food boxes’ to ‘proper tea’ to keep the kids happy and we also have some delicious grown up menus too! All of which can either be delivered to your door or served by our experienced onsite elves.

For a little added sparkle our Aladdin’s cave of goodies contains everything from tiny chairs and tables to themed cutlery and balloons!

For the ultimate kids party experience -

!

IT S ELECTRIC

www.elvesandovens.com

hungry@elvesandovens.com

Tel. 02089617477

The Little London Music School The Little London Music School Introducing your child to the joytoof Introducing your child themusic joy of music

Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

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NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PARTIES

“Cookie cutters are great for pre-party baking.”

SET OF COOKIE CUTTERS £1.49 DUNELM-MILL.COM

“These party hats are perfect for both boys and girls and always get everyone in the mood for a party.”

RUBY RED POLKA PARTY HAT £1.59 FOR EIGHT PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

“Kids love a helium balloon, and this large Mickey balloon will catch everyone’s eye.”

“Simply delicious! Plus a bespoke cake also means that no-one else will have the same cake as you!”

MICKEY MOUSE BALLOON £4.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

“These miniature sweet shop stalls are one of my party must-haves for this year, such an original idea.”

BESPOKE DISNEY CAKE £175 CAKESBYROBIN.CO.UK

SWEET SHOP STALL £14.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

“Everyone enjoys a cool drink or a smoothie (me included!). Get the kids involved and make your own healthy, fruit-packed options.”

“Don’t feel everything has to be Disney branded. Mix and match plain and spotted colours to continue the theme.”

MICKEY MOUSE JAM JAR CUP £6.95 DISNEYSTORE.CO.UK

POLKA DOT BOXES £1.59 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

CAROLE’S TOP TIP

Try theming your party bags as well, it’s so easy to do. Fill them with Mickey and Minnie treats – I especially love these Mickey Mouse ears!

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"A smart paper party bag has a traditional feel to it, and children always love a little momento."

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1. RED BAG £1.99 FOR 10 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK 2. MICKEY EARS SET £2.49 FOR FOUR PARTYPIECES.CO.UK 3. CHOCOLATE COINS £0.89 FOR FIVE COINS PARTYPIECES.CO.UK 4. COLOURING SET £2.79 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK 5. PUNCHBALL BALLOON £2.99 FOR FOUR PARTYPIECES.CO.UK 6. LIP SMACKER LIP BALM £2.50 TOPSHOP.COM 7. MICKEY MOUSE FOIL STICKERS £1.25 OCADO.COM

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PRESENT IDEAS

PARTIES

Go that extra mile and add the birthday boy or girl's name to a cuddly Mickey Mouse toy

PARTY TIME WITH

CAROLE MIDDLETON •CL AS SIC DISNEY•

OUR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR AND PARTY EXPERT COVERS EVERYONE’S FAVOURITE MICE, MICKEY AND MINNIE What is it about the theme of classic Disney that is so enduring?

Do you think parents like to reflect current trends when planning a party?

Given that Walt Disney created Mickey Mouse nearly 90 years ago, in 1928, I think it has a truly timeless quality as a party theme.

It works so well for both boys and girls, it appeals to all ages and has a lovely wholesome quality to it. The children love it and it just never seems to go out of fashion.

Definitely! And Mickey and Minnie are definitely having a moment right now, with international brands – like Vans and Samsonite – using the images on their products, and artists like Damien Hirst following in Andy Warhol’s footsteps by creating Mickey Mouse artwork. Mickey and Minnie are global icons, and we love to help parents channel their cheerful sense of fun and energy into a party setting.

What’s your secret to a successful Disney party?

Start by sending out Disney invitations, in the post or online, to give guests a taster of what’s to come. And for the big day itself choose a colour scheme based on either Mickey or Minnie, with gorgeous decorations to set the scene. Make sure you have some activities planned – anything from traditional party games to Mickey cookie decorating – to keep everyone busy, and a centrepiece cake to fit the theme is always a nice touch.

And your top party tip?

MICKEY MOUSE GAME £2.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

Why not make your Disney party a fancy dress party? Guests will jump at the chance to dress as their favourite Disney icon and the more creative the better.

Keep little ones busy with a hands-on activity that doubles LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK as something to take home

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TOP TO BOTTOM: MINNIE ICONIC SCHOOLBAG £45 SAMSONITE.CO.UK PERSONALISED MICKEY £25.90 DISNEYSTORE.CO.UK MICKEY CREWNECK FLEECE £50 VANS.CO.UK LITTLELIFE BAG £22.95 JOHNLEWIS.COM MAKE-UP SET £10 AMAZON.CO.UK MICKEY MOUSE SLIP-ON VANS £32 VANS.CO.UK

get CRAFTY

LEONORA BAMFORD AND NANNY ANITA SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE ACTIVITIES TO EASE THE TRANSITION FROM HOLIDAYS TO TERM TIME

A

s the summer holidays are in full flow, we’re thinking about all the fun that can be had outside with the children. Back-to-school is also on my mind, and I can’t believe my youngest is ready to start big girl’s school.

In this issue, I’m mixing a few crafts and activities to keep you busy on the home stretch of the holidays, including a fun outing and a delicious vitamin-bursting smoothie, to get your children’s immune systems ready for the winter months ahead.

Leonora chilling out at home with her daughter

mybaba.com

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CREATIVITY

Make off-the-beaten-track walks a little more interesting

THE COLOUR WALK We’ve spent most of the holidays outside on nature trails, and Nanny Anita came up with this brilliant idea of The Colour Walk.

Take a basket on your next walk; everyone has to keep a lookout and collect as many different coloured flowers, leaves, stones or interesting objects that they can find. Tip the basket out onto the kitchen table when you get home, and have fun rummaging through what you’ve found.

This is a great time for flower pressing and still life drawings.

GORILLA CIRCUS This is an outing I’m desperate to try this year, it’s for children from eight upward and it looks like so much fun. A circus descends on Regent’s Park, with a full trapeze, and you can attempt a trick while flying through the air by the end of the class. gorillacircus.com

JO’S BERRY SMOOTHIE RECIPE This makes one child-sized cup of smoothie: • 150ml almond milk (or normal milk) • 2 organic strawberries • 5 organic raspberries • 2g of My Baba Multivitamin Powder Whizz the whole lot up, and hey presto – a delicious smoothie. If the fruit isn’t sweet enough, add a little honey or maple syrup.

Create a Pin Board The children get so busy with school activities and play dates that it’s sometimes difficult to remember what’s going on and when. To help learn the days of the week, prepare them for the day ahead and give them a bit of responsibility, Anita made this awesome pin board to help everyone keep track.

To create your own pin board you will need…

• Roll or sheet of cork • Cardboard • Foam sheet or card • Pens • Glue • Scissors • Pins

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG, ISTOCK

LOLLY MOULDS I think I’ve got every product that this company sells! These new lollies by Zoku are so incredibly easy to make, and the kids love them, too. johnlewis.com

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How to make: • Cut your cardboard and cork to the same size, if you’re using a roll you will need to flatten using a heavy object.

• When flat, glue the cork to the cardboard and use a heavy object to make sure it sticks properly.

• While the glue is drying, cut out your foam sheets or card. Anita made days of the week; activities; what they needed to remember to take to school and play dates; plus letters of the alphabet to work on.

• Once the glue has set, have fun decorating the corkboard – sharpies can be used to draw your own personalised designs. We look at the pin board every morning and it really helps with responsibility.

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™

www.wemademe.com

FEATURE

Jump

around!

AFTER MUCH PERSUASION FROM HER CHILDREN, MARINA FOGLE AGREES TO INVESTIGATE THE WORLD OF TRAMPOLINES

I

But the older they got and the more time they spent on trampolines, the more they nagged me. And finally, after they visited their friend Fred’s house, where the Easter bunny had brought a trampoline, I agreed to at least look into it. A brisk search was not encouraging. All I found were links for sunken trampoline kits, which considering my husband Ben struggles with basic Ikea shelves, would probably spell the end of our marriage. Added to this were horror stories about injuries and water collecting in sunken holes and becoming infested with snakes.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, HELENE SANDBERG

t all started in Portugal – where our children discovered the joy of jumping.

Before then, they’d always been rather wary of trampolines, after a few bad experiences with lots of larger children and rather too much bouncing, sending my fragile newbies ricocheting onto an unforgiving surface. But after spending a week in a hotel where, in their own time, they learnt what fun it was to bounce, they were addicted.

And quite frankly so were we. Our children slept soundly and for longer, exhausted by their trampoline antics, and they would spend hours playing, learning to share, to be mindful of smaller children and all the while building their core muscles.

Since then, it’s been at the top of every birthday list, a letter extolling its virtues was written to Father Christmas, but to no avail.

Because in spite of their desperate attempts of persuasion, I was reluctant. You can’t dig out a trampoline in a stamp-sized London garden.

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RUNNING HEAD

Trampolines fuel endless hours of simple fun, and are fab exercise, too

TOP TIPS FOR TRAMPOLINE SHOPPING • Using an above ground trampoline with no net is dangerous; but there are relatively few injuries from trampolines used safely. Yes, children get into scrapes (mostly when there are lots of children using it), but it is generally no more than

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they would get playing in the garden.

• If you are digging in, make sure you invest in a sturdy trampoline. The cost is digging the hole, so it’s worth investing in something that will last.

• Before you dig in, make sure you are not going

below the water table.

The last thing you want is a hole filled with water.

• Instead of hiding your trampoline away, have it in full view of the house.

Sunken trampolines are not ugly and it’s better for keeping an eye on them. sunkentrampolines.co.uk

FEATURE

I was just about convinced that this idea really wasn’t for us when I found a company that offered the whole package – digging the hole, installing the trampoline, ensuring its safety and then re-landscaping. I picked up the phone and spoke to Joel Paul, the founder of Sunken Trampolines, who talked me through the whole process.

A father-of-three energetic boys, he installed a sunken trampoline in his garden and says, 10 years later, it’s used as much as the day it was completed. He used a landscape gardener friend to ensure that it was not only inoffensive in the garden, but actually looked great. “My friends started asking me where I’d got this done and I realised that this was a service that no-one was offering but for which there was considerable demand.”

Four years later his business is “manic” and they are doubling their turnover year on year. These trampolines don’t come cheap,

but Joel caters for a market that want it done safely and beautifully. He tells me that he’s always sad when people want their trampoline hidden around a corner. “Trust me, sunken trampolines look great, and there’s nothing more wonderful than sitting down with a gin and tonic at the end of your day and watching the sheer joy of your children as they bounce.”

sunken trampoline starts at just over £3,000, including installation and landscaping.

Thereafter, your trampoline shouldn’t need much maintenance and you can expect to get a good 10 to 15 years from it. It is expensive, but actually if you break it down per year, it’s doable. But now I do see that the sky’s the limit with these wonderful creations. Joel tells me that builds which include electric lids sometimes go as high as £25,000.

And just yesterday I would have thought this ludicrous, but now I understand how clever they have been. They’ve turned something every child desperately craves but what every houseproud parent desperately tries to avoid, into something that both parties love. I realise that the excuses that I made to my children no longer stand – even our tiny garden in London is big enough, it won’t be ugly and it will be safe. And it will now happen – and I for one, can’t wait. L

There’s nothing better than watching the sheer joy of your children as they bounce The edge can be finished with astroturf and smart brick can be matched to existing brick in the garden. For those who are short on space, lids can be created so that when it is not used, the trampoline is invisible.

So we’ve now established that I want one, desperately, but exactly how much are we talking? He explains that the service for a

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Positioning: Choose a clear area away from obstructions like fences and low-hanging trees.

Ground work: Stick to grass and bark; avoid decking, patios and hard mud.

Crowd control: It’s tempting to pile on together, but the lightest child is five times more likely to be injured.

Acrobatics: Leave the advanced manoeuvres like back flips and somersaults to the experts!

Supervision: Above all, supervise children at all times.

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FEATURE

HAPPY FAMILIES WHEN YOU WANT TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED, NOTHING COMES CLOSE TO HANGING OUT WITH THE COUSINS, WRITES ALEX PAYNE

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FEATURE

T

he wife and I were on the way to a dinner party recently, utterly ragged in our glad-rags, after one of those days in which we had played the various roles of entertainer, peacekeeper, chef, teacher, nurse, counsellor, chauffeur, housekeeper and parole officer.

Craving the numbing first glass of wine, we found ourselves muttering about solutions to the slog.

Although we do bring some of it on ourselves as confirmed ‘non-nannyers’, we agreed our generation has it hardest.

Children need more entertaining than ever before as health and safety, political correctness and competitive parenting have all eroded the innocence of the kick-into-the-garden and “See you at tea time!” philosophy.

The following night, bedtime offered a resolution as my daughter and I read a collection of short stories written by her grandfather. They tell of the travails of his ‘Artful Eight’ grandchildren and their dog, Mango: think a personalised Enid Blyton with one or two sharp grandfatherly asides: “Grandpa flicked the morning’s broadsheet higher and pretended not to hear the children’s questions.”

In the story about the labrador being dressed up in a tiger costume and then escaping from the car to cause havoc in the circus, the answer to our problem was there in black and white. I had never really noticed it before but the happiness of the cousins in the fairy tale is every bit as real when they get together in person.

As if by magic, that weekend we headed to my brotherand sister-in-law for Sunday lunch. The sun shone, the rosé flowed and the children completely disappeared, which takes some doing in a London house. And I cannot underplay how glorious it was.

On play dates, you’re always hovering, worrying about the squabbles, the damage, the manners. When it’s just your children, the battles and the boredom set in faster. But far less of this seems to happen among a spread of cousins.

Ours are the bottom two of the Artful Eight, and being with numbers one to six is them at their most happy. To young ones, older cousins are the best form of childcare going: an abundance of interest, imagination and, above all, fun. And I think younger cousins have value too: they admire, aspire and adore. Where else would a child of four spend an entire weekend riding shotgun alongside a 13 year old?

That’s not to say you don’t have to keep an eye open. My daughter descended from three hours in her cousin’s bedroom a few months ago wearing enough lipstick, eye shadow, hair spray and glitter to post gold in a Texan beauty pageant. And, while ‘kick the can’ with your cousins until 10pm in your nightie is idyllic in concept, managing the fallout the following day requires your parents to download and install the skills of a wild horse trainer.

We’ve also had a terrible time trying to unpick the damage done to my son by his cousin, who tweaked Uptown Funk

to include the other F-word. Much amusement to all as our two-year-old danced around swearing blindly on Saturday night. Slightly less mirth when he ran into nursery on Monday morning roaring the less family-friendly version of the lyrics “I’m going to funk you up”.

And that, ironically, was how he felt at last year’s Halloween after being stalked and leapt upon by two older cousins in Scream masks. Although the subsequent hour of wailing would have provided great inspiration for the follow-up works of Edvard Munch, the fact is, if you play with the big kids, you have to learn fast.

But it appears cousins don’t have the intensity or the competition of a sibling relationship; instead it is about anticipation and excitement. The Artful Eight come together at special times and have built a special bond.

And I hope that is how it plays out in the future, because if parents set the framework and issue the rules, cousins are there to show you the shortcuts and how to beat the system.

Marriage is naturally the point at which the roots of a family tree head off in new directions. New people join, new opportunities arise, new roads are travelled. Yet, in time, it seems to me that cousins are a brilliant way of tying all those roots back together. Most importantly, though, they allow parents to drink themselves numb in the sun. L

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Cousins are there to show you the shortcuts and how to beat the system

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RUNNING HEAD

A SMOOTHIE KIND OF LOVE GEORGIE SOSKIN AND JO SAUNDERS, OF COOKING THEM HEALTHY, HIT THE BLENDERS

I

n case you hadn’t noticed, the world seems to have gone smoothie crazy.

And here at Cooking them Healthy we are equally crazy about the smoothie.

It is something that features regularly on the menu in our homes – our kids love them, as do we. However, are smoothies really worthy of their current cult-like status?

Here, we give you the low-down on the slightly overwhelming world of smoothies and juices, providing top tips for getting the most out of your smoothie, as well as some brilliant recipes for the most delicious and nutritious. what is a smoothie?

A smoothie is a thick and smooth blended drink combining fruit and/or vegetables, sometimes yoghurt and milk (or you can use a milk alternative).

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Good news, you probably have all the equipment you need already, as you can make smoothies in most types of kitchen blender, meaning that you won’t have to buy expensive new gadgets. However, if you are ‘smoothing’ regularly you may wish to invest in one of the specialised options available on the market.

WHAT ABOUT JUICE? When making a juice, you extract the juice from fresh fruit and vegetables. Juices also offer a much more nutrient-dense alternative to many shop-bought sugary options. However, it is worth noting that due to the nature of the juicing process, the fibre (pulp) is removed.

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Smoothies are a great way to combine nutritious ingredients, and they can also be a useful tool for younger family members, as the blending process is ideal for disguising some wonderful nutrient-dense foods.

Jo and I would always advocate a decent protein-based breakfast, but a balanced and well-combined smoothie could work as a good replacement if you are a little pushed for time in the morning.

Offering exciting, colourful smoothie options alongside a light meal can also work well as an appealing, filling and nutritientboosting accompaniment. And they are of course perfectly portable to drink on the go.

For more smoothie ideas, and plenty of other easy and delicious recipes focused on the nutritional needs of your child, visit cookingthemhealthy.com

NUTRITION

Let's go bananas!

This is a great source of minerals and ultra creamy

HOW TO MAKE NUTRIENTRICH SMOOTHIES • Add a handful of spinach to a berrybased smoothie for an unidentifiable vitamin C and iron-rich boost.

• Use a couple of dates to sweeten smoothies. You can soak them first in hot water to soften if required, although larger medjool dates are usually soft enough to use as they are.

• If you are sensitive to dairy or fancy trying something different, experiment with milk alternatives like unsweetened almond, rice or coconut milk. Coconut water can be a refreshing and electrolyte-rich addition, too.

• Protein powders are not just for bodybuilders. Adding a scoop of whey, rice or pea protein can transform a smoothie into a well-balanced meal replacement. Find quality protein powders in good health food shops.

• Use frozen fruit – smoothies can become a rather expensive business.

We fill our freezers with frozen fruit (either shop bought or frozen when in season).

• Keep it seasonal. If you are using fresh fruit and vegetables, try to focus on what is currently in season as it will taste sweeter and hold more nutrients.

• Don’t be scared to experiment.

Avocado, for example, adds a rich and silky texture to a smoothie and is full of with vitamin E and nutritious fats.

• Think beyond fruit and vegetables. Try adding small handfuls of soaked nuts or seeds to boost the protein content and add creaminess.

BREAKFAST BANANA BOOSTER This is an ideal smoothie to whiz up for a breakfast on the go, is wonderfully creamy and satisfying, and has a sumptious velvety texture.

Makes 1 large glass or 2 small servings.

• 1 banana • 15g oats • 1 date • 1 tsp cinnamon • 65g live natural yoghurt or kefir • 100ml coconut milk or almond milk

• Add spices, like turmeric and cinnamon. Turmeric is packed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon helps to regulate blood sugar levels and adds sweetness.

• Kefir can be used in place of yoghurt.

It is a tangy, ancient, fermented milk drink, rich in probiotic bacteria. It’s easy to make your own (we will keep you posted over the coming months), but available to buy from health food shops.

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NUTRITION

DINOSAUR JUICE (OR PINEAPPLE QUENCHER) This is a lovely fresh and zingy smoothie with a terrific vibrant green colour which has earned it the affectionate name ‘Dinosaur Juice’ in our household. It is packed full of vitamin C for a helpful immune boost and the pineapple is rich in enzymes, helpful for digestion.

Makes 1 large glass or 2 small servings.

• A large handful of spinach • 1/2 pineapple • 1 medium or large mango • 190ml apple juice (ideally not from concentrate) • A squeeze of lemon juice • Thumb-sized piece of ginger

This so-called 'Dinosaur Juice' is a fab immune boost

BERRY BLASTER This is always a huge hit as children tend to adore berries – and they will never know there is spinach hidden in there.

Berries are packed full of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which are key for immune health. Buying frozen berries ensures they are easily available, as well as being easier on the purse than fresh.

Try this smoothie as a delicious and amazingly easy way to make sure your little ones consume key nutrients.

Makes 1 large glass or 2 small servings.

• 1 small banana • 120g frozen berries • 170ml coconut milk, almond milk or coconut water • A generous handful of spinach LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS The birth of your baby is a moment you’ll always treasure. Having your child delivered by a team you know and trust gives you the comfort every mother wants.

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travel

NEWS Keeping big and little globetrotters on the map and in the know

TACKLE THE HOLIDAYS WITH RUGBYTOTS Guests staying at The Residence Mauritius can now take advantage of the fantastic rugby lessons on offer for children aged two to 13 years old. With a kilometre-long stretch of idyllic white sand and over 10 acres of tropical gardens, we predict parents will be lining up to join in, too. And as the Rugby World Cup is on the horizon, there is no better time to get involved and start some fun training. cenizaro.com/theresidence/mauritius

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHRIS TUBBS PHOTOGRAPHY

SWIMFIN FUN If you’re heading to the pool this summer don’t forget your SwimFin, the innovative buoyancy aid that works in harmony with the body to improve your little one’s natural swimming position in the water. Now available in neon lime, and suitable for all ages and abilities. £21.99 | swimfin.co.uk

PAY-AS-YOU-GO AIRPORT LOUNGE Regardless of the airline you’re flying with, you can now check the whole family into the Plaza Premium Lounge in Heathrow’s Terminals Two or Four.

Whether you want a snack or a sit-down meal, a shower, a quick Skype session or to set the kids up watching a film, there is an oasis of calm waiting for you! plaza-network.com

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SHOWTIME!

Families visiting Sarasota in Florida are in for a treat: The Circus Arts Conservatory is offering classes for children aged five and up, run by professionally trained circus performers. The classes cover everything from low-wire and flying trapeze skills to acrobatics. From $40 for an hour. circusarts.org

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TRAVEL

TREASURE TROVE DR CHIARA HUNT FORGOES THE CALL OF THE WILD FOR A FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY AT MARTINHAL IN PORTUGAL

The children off on an adventure of their own as they discover everything the beach has to offer 82

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TRAVEL

Our luxurious townhouse

H

olidays for my husband and I have always been adventurous: our first mini-break was a sky-diving trip in Spain, followed by a ‘courtship’ involving a self-made raft on a river in Sweden; our honeymoon was a riding Safari in Kenya; and our ‘baby moon’ was spent in a horse-drawn gypsy caravan – at eight months pregnant it was not the most comfortable holiday, but an adventure.

Two small children later, however, we had to bid farewell to our favourite kind of holidays, and it was diffcult to find a worthy replacement. When I suggested that we go for a week to Martinhal Beach Resort, a ‘children’s hotel’ with kids’ clubs and play corners in the restaurants, I could see my rugged, wilderness-loving husband visibly bristle. Some gentle persuasion later, aided by the fact that various family members and friends had been and loved it, our tickets were booked. On the flight out, it was clear he was not looking forward to it.

Landing in Faro, things couldn’t have been more straightforward. The hotel driver was on time, the car seats were in and the LEGO movie ready to go on the car’s entertainment system. This was clearly a hotel that understood the needs of both children and their frazzled parents alike.

I had been told by my sister that Martinhal is child-friendly without being cringe-worthy. A place where parents can have a properly spoiling holiday knowing that their children are also having a great time. You can choose to stay in a hotel room, a self-catering townhouse or a larger villa.

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We chose the townhouse with half board allowing us the flexibility of eating at home or in the restaurant.

The hotel has thought of everything.

Families with young babies and toddlers are provided with all the necessities and more, from sterilisers, cots and purée machines, to potties and high chairs. The shop in the hotel’s market square also stocks anything else you might need. Nappies, formula and Ella’s Kitchen food pouches sit alongside freshly-baked bread, decent wine and a good ice-cream selection, and if you’re craving a bit of home there are even frozen fish fingers and peas on offer. There are children’s toys in the restaurants and a huge box of beach toys that you can rummage through.

On sunny days we had an early breakfast on the terrace and strolled down to the beach where we annexed a cubby hole and some deck chairs and settled in for the day.

The children built enormous sandcastles, played in the waves and found ‘treasure’ on the beach before nodding off in the shade, giving us the chance to read our books or leap into the surf. But even on days when the sun failed to shine, the hotel still managed to pull it off. For us, the Little Foxes kids’ club was an all-round winner. After we had indulged at the spa and enjoyed a child-free brisk beach walk, our exuberant children emerged with faces painted, balloon swords and lots of stories to tell.

At the end of our fun-filled days came the children’s biggest treat yet – grown-up supper. As a family we would get dressed up and have a drink on the terrace of our little house before strolling down to one of the hotel restaurants. The menus are tailored to different age ranges, the food is all freshly made and delicious; purées for babies, mushy food for toddlers and the children were delighted to be able to choose a starter, main course and pudding from their very own menus. Having chosen they were off, One of many sandcastles

TRAVEL

jumping on the trampoline strategically placed within sight of the restaurant or drawing in the corner with one of the hotel staff until the food was ready, while we sipped our G and Ts and had some adult conversation.

A week passed in a flurry, and on our last night I nearly fell off my chair when my husband told me (after a bottle of wine) that it had exceeded his expectations. Our wilderness was replaced by a beach full of playmates for our children, our wild lake by a heated swimming pool and our idyllic restaurant view had a large trampoline buried in the sand at the edge of it, but it worked. Our children loved it. There’s a saying that goes, “You’re only as happy as your unhappiest child”. And that meant we couldn’t have been happier. L martinhal.com

HOLIDAY FIRST AID KIT If your child is unwell always seek the advice of a doctor before giving any medication.

• Paracetamol and ibuprofen in case of fever or pain.

• Sun cream.

• Mosquito repellent.

• Bite and sting spray – these numb the area and give some immediate relief.

• Children’s oral antihistamine and antihistamine cream in case of allergic reaction to a sting.

• Plasters and bandages.

• Arnica cream for bumps and bruises.

• Antiseptic solution or spray for cleaning wounds.

CHIARA’S MEDICAL TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN • Remember, in most of Europe you cannot buy medicines in the supermarkets, only in pharmacies.

So it is worth bringing any you might need with you.

• Find out in advance where the nearest good doctors’ surgery or hospital is, in case you need to take a sick or injured child there.

• If your child suffers from recurrent infections or illnesses, before you leave speak to your GP about the possibility of taking the medication with you that you use to treat it.

• If you are travelling when pregnant, it is worth finding out where the nearest

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hospital is that looks after pregnant women and delivers babies.

• Know what yours and your children’s blood group is and make a note of this in your phone.

• Make sure you have a European Health Insurance Card for each member of the family. You can apply for these at nhs.uk/ehic and it entitles you and your family to free healthcare in Europe. Also, have your travel insurance and health insurance details stored on your phone for easy access in an emergency.

Dr Chiara Hunt runs The Bump Class with her sister Marina Fogle. To find out more visit thebumpclass.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY: MARTINHAL FAMILY RESORT, ULRICH WINKLER, HELENE SANDBERG

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OLIVIA’S LITTLE LUXURIES HELP YOUR CHILDREN UNWIND WITH OLIVIA FALCON’S TOP TIPS

W

hile there is no doubt we live in the greatest city in the world, many London children face the relentless pressure of juggling homework, after-school clubs, and a social life that would make most adults wince. The result?

Our children are often left feeling stressed, anxious and emotionally overwhelmed. In order to avoid this, I’ve put together some suggestions for chilling out.

YOGA CLASSES JO MANUEL is the Queen of serene, she teaches at SPECIAL YOGA (specialyoga.org.uk) in Kensal Rise, offering kids’ yoga and mindfulness programmes (from £5). The classes focus on stretching and breathing techniques to help children regulate emotions. Jo’s forte is finding different techniques that work for the individual child and has worked with special-needs children. She also offers classes to parents to help them teach their children to be more mindful.

Download Jo’s stretchalongs at:

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG, ISTOCK

movementformodernlife.com

ANNIE CARPENTER at TRIYOGA in Chelsea offers 45-minute classes for four to six year olds and seven to nine year olds (from £6.50 per class). Annie doesn’t use music, as she believes it’s good for kids to be in the peace and quiet. Instead, she blends traditional yoga moves with imaginative stories to keep classes interesting. Kids especially love the spaghetti test at the end of the class when they lie down and see how floppy they can become.

GAMES ENCHANTED WONDERS A TO Z CARDS, AGE 3-8 A whimsical card game that combines yoga poses with carefullycrafted questions to allow children to express their thoughts and feelings through their imagination and creative play. £12.99 yogamatters.com

BEDTIME READING THE SOUL BIRD

BY MICHAL SNUNIT, 3+ Powerful and beautifully written, this classic tale helps younger children to understand their feelings.

An enchanting book with a deeper message.

YOGA NAP

BY KIRSTEN RENTZ, 18+ A must-read for wound up parents – the author uses simple pictures and instructions for restorative yoga poses that reboot the body and mind.

SITTING STILL LIKE A FROG

BY ELINE SNEL, AGE 5-12 Mindfulness exercises to help kids cope with anxiety, improve concentration and deal with difficult emotions.

MILTON’S SECRET

BY ECKHART TOLLE AND ROBERT S FRIEDMAN, 8+ Ideal antidote to kids stressed by bullying, it also teaches children how to live in, and enjoy, the present.

SUPPLEMENT ANIMAL PARADE WARM MILK SLEEP SUPPORT These animal-shaped, sugar-free and glutenfree chewable tablets contain Lactium – which creates warm milk’s sleep-promoting effects.

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A PEBBLE FOR YOUR POCKET

BY THICH NHAT HANH, 5+ Gentle Buddhist parables to help children let go of anger and other negative emotions and reconnect with nature.

£17.45 victoriahealth.com

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COME&SEE Top 100 UK school for A Level results

SINGING FROM THE HEART

The Royal School

Being a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral is the experience of a lifetime

  

— 100% tuition fees for all choristers — Assistance with boarding fees available — One of the country’s top preparatory schools — The finest musical education — An amazing start to life

   



If your son is in Year 2 or Year 3 and shows musical promise, do get in touch. He could become one of the next generation of choristers at St Paul’s.

 

TEACHING BOYS AND GIRLS

SEPARATELY

For more information please contact: Clare Morgan, Registrar, St Paul’s Cathedral School 020 7248 5156 · admissions@spcs.london.sch.uk

 

St Nicholas’ School FLEET•HAMPSHIRE

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• Boys and Girls 3-7 years • Girls 3-16 years • EarlyYears Funding Scheme • Small classes with individual attention • Beautiful rural setting • School open 8am until 6pm

01252 850121 st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk For more information please contact the Registrar: registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk St Nicholas’ School, Redfields House, Redfields Lane, Church Crookham, Fleet, Hampshire GU52 ORF Registered in England Reg. No. 872200 Reg. Charity No. 307341

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NEWS

education

NEWS Everything you need to know in and out of the classroom

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector.

The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.

Order the latest issue now!

Visit chelseamagazines.com/ independent-school-parent or call 020 7349 3700 The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

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WHAT’S COOKING? Do you have a mini master chef?

PHONETICS APP This new app from Hip Hop Hen is wonderful for word building and introducing reading.

Created by teachers, it focuses on CVC words (Consonant Vowel Consonant) such as: cat, hen and pig. hiphophen.com

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The UK’s leading culinary school, Le Cordon Bleu, is launching a new workshop in August for eight to 12 year olds. Le Petit Cordon Bleu is a fun two-hour course where children cook alongside a parent, under the guidance of a master chef. Designed to teach the basics to young cooking enthusiasts, the programme recognises the growing need to educate children about healthy eating. “Le Cordon Bleu believes that cooking is not just a profession, but part of everyday life,” says culinary arts director, Alan Swinson. cordonbleu.edu

GET CREATIVE Okido, the children’s arts and science magazine created by two south London mothers, is launching a TV series for CBeebies in September: Messy Goes To Okido. Bringing science to life, it follows the adventure-seeking monster, Messy, as he finds answers to everything from: “Why do things fall down and not up?” to “Where do echoes come from?” okido.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

THE AGE DEBATE AS THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR ROLLS AROUND, EMMA OLIVER EXPLORES THE GAP BETWEEN AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS

T

his September, my youngest daughter Sofia will return to nursery after just turning four.

Her friends will begin school.

Sofia was born on 1 September, taking her over the school-year entry cut-off day (31 August). Her friends, only a few days older, land in the academic year above. The difference is a matter of hours.

Their parents mostly envy Sofia and I, concerned for their children beginning school as the youngest in the year. And I completely understand. You see, I have a vested interest in writing this feature. My eldest Esme, now six, entered the world on 29 August. I remember her, only just four years old, beginning Reception and suddenly having to conform to an entire school day, five days a week. For Esme, who had come from three mornings at pre-school and had trouble sitting still, this proved challenging.

I almost kept her at nursery for another term, but was concerned that holding her back could affect her socially. According to the gov.uk website, under the ‘month of birth and education’ section, statistically speaking my worries were futile: “September entrants to Reception perform better across the Early Years Foundation Stage Profi le than those who enter in January… this is the case regardless of month of birth.”

Fortunately, Esme was confident and coped day to day in the school environment.

Unfortunately, exhausted, she fell apart at home afterwards.

The summer versus autumn-birthday scenario has, unsurprisingly, led to a rise in pregnancies planned for the autumn. I spoke to Katie Lyall, a teacher from Surrey and 90

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PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK, ISTOCK

EDUCATION

mum to Millie, Rosie and Xanthe. She says, “I succeeded twice in consciously having September babies. Millie was born on 3 September and Rosie on 6 September.

“As a teacher, I didn’t plan it simply because I knew they’d be the oldest in the year – although I’m aware of its advantage.

I did it so as not to disrupt the school year I was teaching. Plus, I knew I’d receive full pay through the summer holidays, before starting maternity leave in the new term.

“However, I had also seen fi rst hand how difficult it could be for summer-born children; dealing with the transition to five full school days and a stricter routine.

“Some children are not ready from an emotional or social point of view. They struggle with the independence and maturity expected of them. They often don’t have the language, fine motor or social skills to tackle the challenges facing them in a classroom.

“Having said this, in my experience, by Key Stage 2 (ages seven to 11), the summerborn babies have caught up hugely.”

The statistics actually surmise that from Key Stage 4 (when pupils take their GCSEs, aged between 14 and 16) educational progression and life chances for summerborn children could improve. Yes, that’s right, it states that a summer baby’s chances, educationally, only improve after 14. No wonder autumn babies are planned.

Katie knows she was fortunate conceiving like she did and adds, “Having seen close friends and family struggle to start their families, my advice would be that getting pregnant is far more important than waiting for the right time.” I concur. My babies were not planned and I endured miscarriages LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

between them. It was coincidental that they had the same due date four years apart; and one fell after the school-year entry cut-off day. So we are doing an educational experiment of sorts. But did we need to worry about Esme starting so young?

a summer-born baby, you can hold them back one term, or one whole school year – which is surely a wonderful opportunity for them to continue playing, exploring and learning for themselves? The catch – they’ll skip Reception.

But is that so bad? At Esme’s school, Reception is not so much about playing, but about working. I remember when she asked a few weeks in, “Can I go back to nursery now Mummy, it’s more fun?”

Of course, schools up and down the country vary. Many Reception years have more play-based learning than others. But at such a young age, what is more important?

Dr Lisa Miller, a child psychologist and author of The Spiritual Child, comments, “Children’s development weakens under pressure from a culture that constantly has them feeling judged and pressured to perform.” She continues, “In the States, where our children begin school at six, we can hold them back for up to six months.

The advantage of extra play at this early stage is clear and, in an educational climate like ours, is to be considered a bonus.”

Esme was confident and coped day to day at school, but, exhausted, she fell apart at home afterwards Katie thinks that parents of summer-born babies shouldn’t be concerned about the future, but thinks schools should support the children as much as possible at the start.

She says, “At Millie’s school, summerborn babies have the flexibility to do half days throughout Reception. Although in another local school, it is frowned upon.”

So what are your parental rights? If you have

Esme's birthday falls in September and Sofia's in August

That said, ironically, how I felt about Esme beginning school at just four, is completely the opposite to how I would be feeling if Sofia was to commence school at just four.

I am certain Sofia’s position in the family plays a factor, and that being a second child makes a difference to her developmentally, as well as, to me, emotionally.

Unfortunately, according to paperwork, statistics and finance, a return to a twiceyearly Reception intake is unlikely. So is changing to a Scandinavian-style system, where more children begin school at age seven, and interestingly end up with equal, if not better, results overall.

Our system is probably too ingrained and too complicated to ever change. Yet, clearly there is an argument for each child’s case to be looked at individually, and ultimately for the decision to be made by parents, those who know the child best, giving them the final say in whether their little one starts school in the Reception year, at just four, or already five? L

EDUCATION

Letting Go EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT AND FATHER-OF-TWO SAM FLATMAN EXPLAINS HOW TO RAISE YOUR CHILDREN TO BE INDEPENDENT learn about the world around them in a comfortable, safe environment. It can, of course, take children a little while to figure things out. It won’t be immediately obvious that a square block isn’t going to fit into a round hole, or that not sharing toys will upset others and possibly lead to a tantrum.

But should we be showing them how to perfectly match up the shapes? And how do we know when it’s the right time to step in during play time?

Recent research demonstrates that independent learning is more beneficial for children than structured, instruction-led learning (or us parents just showing them what to do). As part of the study, a group of children were given a new toy. Those that were left to figure out how to use the toy on their own were far more engaged than those who had been shown what to do. The children that were left alone after receiving the new toy also played with it for longer, tried a wider variety of actions and even discovered alternative ways to play with it.

While showing our children how to do things may seem helpful and nurturing, it can actually have the opposite effect. By spoon-feeding them the answers, we risk limiting their capacity for independent and creative thought.

Encouraging children to engage in pretend play, try new things and experiment with toys is an excellent way to foster independence from an early age. I’m not suggesting that you should never help your children, just be careful not to helicopter them.

Parents and teachers form an essential scaffold for a child’s learning, but we must let them climb on their own. This can be as simple as providing plenty of opportunities for your children to engage in unstructured and independent play, and ensuring that they’re not over-stimulated by too many toys. Allow your children, as soon as they’re able, to do things for themselves, even if this does mean that they go out wearing mismatched clothes or make sandwiches with strange fillings. Let them try for themselves, let them fail, and then let them try all over again.

Raising an independent child is a challenge for every parent because it means letting go.

Children need room for growth, so we must resist the urge to wrap them up in cotton wool, providing, instead, a strong platform from which they can make their own way in the world. Besides, when you see your children doing things for themselves, you’ll be glowing with pride. L

pentagonsport.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

D

o you ever find yourself wanting to stop your child from doing something because you know it will all end in tears? While this is the natural instinct of most parents, there’s a fine line between guiding your children in the right direction as they develop their own identity and simply being overprotective.

Children need to map out their own paths, which also means making mistakes.

Many mistakes, from which our children, undoubtedly, will learn invaluable lessons, will be made during play time. It is a time for them to explore and experiment as they

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Edge Grove School is set in 28 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside

MEET THE HEAD EDGE GROVE SCHOOL

WE TALK TO BEN EVANS ABOUT THIS INDEPENDENT PREP SCHOOL IN HERTFORDSHIRE FOR CHILDREN AGED THREE TO 13 YEARS How long have you been working at Edge Grove School?

How do you help ensure every student achieves their full potential?

Almost three years now. I started at Edge Grove in August 2012.

We have individual target setting and careful tracking of progress; we offer small sets across the year groups, with class sizes set at a maximum of 20 and this decreases to small form classes of eight or nine children in Years Five and Six. Our quality teacher training and ambitious use of technology in the classroom allows us to shine.

PHOTOGRAPHY: STUART THOMAS, BLAKE-EZRA PHOTOGRAPHY LTD

Describe the school’s ethos.

Edge Grove pupils are resilient, independent thinkers, have an adventurous spirit, good manners and respect for others. Creativity flourishes here and helps to define Edge Grove as a truly forward thinking school.

Success, both collectively and on an individual level, is our motivation. Our dynamic curriculum challenges and supports all pupils.

We are also proud of our Christian heritage, while embracing the religious and cultural differences of all children and families. Our community of day and boarding pupils and their families also extends into the local area and those we help support through charities.

Does the school have a long history and has it maintained its core values?

Yes, our long history means that tradition plays its part in shaping our character. We have maintained many of our core values and these provide a strong foundation upon which we are building our future.

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What makes Edge Grove School an attractive option for London parents?

Being only 15 miles from central London, Edge Grove is an easily accessible prep school which is set in 28 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside. One of our new parents who lives in the Hampstead/ Highgate area has recently said it is quicker to drive her child to school at Edge Grove than try and fight her way through the Hampstead traffic to schools that are located less than two miles from their home. Because we have the grounds and the outdoor space, children have so many opportunities at Edge Grove for outdoor learning, so they can enjoy the combination of an academic, challenging curriculum along with many outdoor learning opportunities every day.

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What kind of feedback does the school receive from parents and pupils?

We regularly communicate with parents for their feedback about the school. Feedback is positive and there is definitely a true sense of being part of the Edge Grove community among parents, pupils and staff.

What does the future hold?

Edge Grove will continue to provide an outstanding quality of education. The school will lead though its innovative curriculum, creative teaching and use of technology, ensuring that individual pupil progress, achievement and success is always at the core of what we do. L W: edgegrove.com

ACTIVITIES

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ACTIVITIES

LET’S PLAY PRETEND! IT’S THE TALK OF TOWN... AS KIDZANIA LANDS IN LONDON WITH A BANG, EMMA THELWELL HEADS TO THE LATEST ‘EDUTAINMENT’ VENUE

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RUNNING HEAD

T

Real-life Formula One pit-lane experience with Renault

Children can only aspire to what they know exists. KidZania is a learning process that provides awareness All KidZania guests are given electronic bracelets and checked in and out of the city, and children over the age of seven can be left alone. Dr Ger Graus, KidZania’s director of education, explained that it is a place where “grown-ups are to be seen and not heard”.

He said that although the activities were developed by teachers and are “loosely”

Budding pilots and cabin crew prepare for takeoff

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connected to the national curriculum, the employees are facilitators, not teachers.

The children make up their own minds what jobs to go for and how to spend their money. If they don’t know what they want to do, they can go to the Job Centre where they can click through a quick, fun personality quiz on a computer which helps them choose.

“Children can only aspire to what they know exists,” Dr Graus said. “It’s about a learning process providing an awareness, where children can begin to find out what is out there.” Anika Hargie, deputy headteacher of local primary school Wormholt Park, has taken her pupils along to two previous test runs of the city. Queuing at the launch for a third visit, Wormholt boys and girls were buzzing with excitement, jumping along to the staff dance – an enthusiastic flash mob which goes off at any given moment.

Anika expected many of her pupils to make a beeline for the Fire Station, supermarket checkouts, the nightclub DJ decks or Renault’s Formula One pit lane.

But she said, “one six-year-old girl whose life ambition is to be a midwife, she’ll be straight in there at the maternity unit”.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES 2015, BUYAGIFT.COM

here are no rollercoasters or video games at the new KidZania theme park. Yet the children queuing up for its launch are screaming to get in, all for the chance to play pretend.

Pretend firefighter, pretend doctor, radio presenter, actor or hairdresser, children can mimic more than 60 real-life jobs. A pintsized play-land replica of the real world, it’s all there: a police station, hospital, theatre and university, as if the mad scientist from Honey, I Shrunk the Kids has been zapping away with his laser beam.

Sprawled across two storeys at the top of White City’s Westfield shopping centre, it even has the London high-street staple H&M, as well as a Gourmet Burger Kitchen and a Capital Radio studio. And just like the real world, children can earn money or ‘kidZos’ which they can either pocket, or deposit at the bank to withdraw from the ATM with their very own cash card.

Though it’s the first KidZania to hit northern Europe, there are 19 across the globe offering their unique take on ‘edutainment’.

The concept has attracted 42 million visitors since the 1999 opening of the flagship KidZania in Mexico City.

Children aged between four and 14 have four hours to roam KidZania, and with most activities lasting between 15 and 30 minutes they’ll typically try between five or six jobs.

Grown-ups aren’t allowed to join in, but they can watch or play along as the audience in the theatre, customers on the plane or as hotel guests. Otherwise, they are encouraged to wait in the parents’ lounge – a café with free wifi, or head off for some retail therapy in Westfield, while the park’s ‘Zupervisors’ oversee their kids.

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ACTIVITIES

Children can try their hand at piloting a British Airways plane

The emergency services attract the biggest queues thanks to the dramatic fake blaze at the Flamingo Hotel. A 999 call goes out and the kiddy police, dressed in uniforms complete with stab vests, cordon off the area for the firemen’s hoses, while the A&E team cart off casualties in the ambulance.

At the Acting Academy, children can put on a play, magic or puppet show at the theatre. They can pilot a British Airways plane, join the cabin crew or don lab coats at Cadbury and Innocent Drinks to learn about the origins and science behind the products, before making a chocolate or smoothie.

Though there has been some criticism surrounding the presence of big brands,

KidZania London chairman Joel Cadbury said, “KidZania London will be an experience like no other, throughout its development we have gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure the City is as authentic and true to the real world as possible.”

Certainly, Wormholt’s school business manager Caroline Plummer said the children don’t pay much attention to the brands. She said, “It’s real life, they want to do what they know.” The wage ranges are less true to life, with actors picking up eight kidZos for 40 minutes’ work and hotel housekeepers taking home 10 kidZos for 10 minutes’ cleaning.

Children can splash their cash on face painting, temporary tattoos or in the department store where hairbands will set them back 70 kidZos, sunglasses range from 250 to 425 and a small digger costs 75.

But unlike other theme parks, if they run out of money, there’s no running to Mum and Dad for more cash – it’s back to work.

Ticket prices start at £10 per child, for schools and group parties; through to £29.50 for on-the-day ticket sales; and from £14 to £18 for accompanying adults. L

Visit kidzania.co.uk and exclusive ticket bundles are available at buyagift.com

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DON’T MISS… • Dentist Grasp all the basics of brushing and flossing, plus fill cavities on the life-like model.

• Dance Club Take part in a dance show and sing in the karaoke competition.

• Garment Recycling Plant Learn about the life cycle of cotton and take part in the process of textile recycling.

• Power Station It’s all about energy sources – fix a fuse and restore power to KidZania.

FullFull of Spice of Spice

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23 May – 6 September

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WHAT’S ON

AG E N DA LIANNE KOLIRIN TELLS US WHAT’S ON IN THE CAPITAL

U R BAN B E AC H O N TH E S O UTH BAN K This little patch of 'seaside' will be in place

PHOTOGRAPHY: BELINDA LAWLEY

until Sunday 7 September, 10am to 8pm.

These days a staycation in London doesn’t have to mean missing out on some good old-fashioned beach fun. Why not pack a picnic and a bucket and spade and head for the Southbank Centre’s 70-metre riverside urban beach. Just don’t try going for a dip in the water! South Bank’s popular urban beachfront returns as part of the two-month long Festival of Love, which brings together artists and communities with free events, performances and pop ups.

C O U NTRYS I D E LIVE

AR T I N TH E GAR D E N

Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September,

Wednesdays in August, 2pm to 4pm.

10am to 5pm.

Head to Countryside Live for arena displays, falconry, sheep dogs, ferret racing, willow weaving and corn dolly making. There’ll be animals galore and family activities include apple pressing and planting tree seeds.

Every Wednesday in August, Dulwich Picture Gallery will be hosting art activities for children of all ages in its lovely garden.

A teaching artist will be on hand to inspire during the sessions, which will run on varying themes. All materials are provided.

single-day pass or £7 for a two-day pass.

adults and free for children.

Admission: Free.

Walthamstow and Leyton Marshes, Lea Bridge

Dulwich Picture Gallery, Gallery Road,

Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX

Road, London E10 7QL

London SE21 7AD

0844 875 0073

0845 677 0600

020 8693 5254

southbankcentre.co.uk

visitleevalley.org.uk

dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

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Admission: Children go free. Adults pay £5 for a

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Admission: Free with gallery ticket, which is £6 for

K I D Z AN IA

ARO U N D TH E WO R L D I N 6 0 DAYS

G O R I LL A

Weekdays: 10am to 6.30pm, weekends: 10am to 7.30pm, school holidays: 10am to 8pm.

Monday to Sunday 9.30am to 6pm or 6.30pm.

At 75,000 square feet, London’s newest family-friendly attraction is a ‘child-size city’ with over 60 real-world establishments, for fun and safe role-play adventures.

Each week the activities and food changes to a different part of the world. In July and August, children receive a passport – and free entry in September if they collect five stamps.

When Hannah’s toy gorilla comes to life, they embark on an adventure. Anthony Browne’s classic comes to life with puppetry and songs.

Admission: Prices depend on age and times.

London SW19 1SB

age four to 14 £29.50, adults £18.

Gambado Chelsea, 7 Station Court, Townmead

020 8543 4888

KidZania London, Westfield London,

Road, London SW6 2PY

polkatheatre.com

Ariel Way W12 7GA

0207 384 1635

0330 131 3333

gambado.com/clubs/chelsea

Admission: Under-ones free, age one to three £10,

london.kidzania.com

Until Sunday 16 August. Various performances.

Admission: £13.50.

Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway,

RO C O C O P L AS TE R CAS T S Tuesday 4 August. Sessions from 10.30am to

C H I L D R E N ’ S YO GA AT TR IYO GA

BAC H TO BABY MAGYAR MAG I C FAM I LY C O N C E R T

Class times vary according to age and venue.

Saturday 5 September, 11am to 12pm.

Triyoga now runs kids’ classes in Chelsea and Camden, to increase coordination, relaxation, self-awareness, confidence and self-esteem.

Families with under-fives are invited to a concert of folk rhythms from Central Europe, with composers from Bartók to Brahms.

Admission: Adult £10, child free.

40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ

triyoga.co.uk

St Paul’s Church, Bedford Street, London WC2E 9ED

020 7841 3600

bachtobaby.com/tickets

foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Sunday to Thursday, and 10am to 7pm on

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Fridays and Saturdays.

Tuesday 23 June - Sunday 30 August.

Thursday 27 August, drop in from 1pm to 4pm.

Explore the role of poison in nature, myth and human health. Step into fairy tales and solve poisoning mysteries.

Check out the Brazilian artist’s new installation, which explores childhood fears through a display of handmade capes.

This special session at the Design Museum will be led by Designs of the Year nominees Technology Will Save Us.

Admission: Adult £9, child £5; family of four £23,

The Whitechapel Gallery, 77-82 Whitechapel High

go free, adult £13, child £6.50.

family of five £27.

Street, London E1 7QX

Design Museum, Shad Thames, London SE1 2YD

020 3773 8995

020 7522 7888

020 7940 8783

powerofpoison.co.uk

whitechapelgallery.org

designmuseum.org

Admission: £8 per class or a block of 10 for £32.50.

12.30pm and 2pm to 4pm.

Carve your own plaster cast ceiling tile inspired by the famous Rococo ceiling in the Foundling Museum’s Court Room.

Admission: Free for children and up to two accompanying adults.

TH E P OWE R O F P O I S O N Until Sunday 6 September. Open 10am to 6pm

Old Truman Brewery, London E1 6QR

Admission: Free

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Admission: Free with museum entry. Under-sixes

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PHOTOGRAPHY: BACH TO BABY, ALEJANDRO TAMAGNO, GORILLA, POLKA THEATRE, THE TRUSTEES OF THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM LONDON 2015, PAMELA RAITH PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON

LIMITED TIME SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

The sessions will run at varying times on 1, 4, 18

K E AT S H O U S E FAM I LY DAY: LI O N S AN D TI G E R S AN D B E AR S !

and 29 August and 19 and 20 September.

Sunday 9 August, 1pm to 4pm.

Handle fossil specimens, sort artefacts into groups or excavate a replica dinosaur skull to learn what fossils tell us about life in the past.

From travellers’ tales of far-away lands to trips to the zoo, this month find out about some of the wildest and strangest creatures on our planet and make some of your own.

Admission: Free.

Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD

Admission: Free.

020 7942 5000

Keats House, 10 Keats Grove, Hampstead,

nhm.ac.uk

London NW3 2RR 020 7332 3868

F RO Z E N S I N G - ALO N G

cityoflondon.gov.uk

Saturday 12 September at 7.30pm.

Doors open at 6pm.

K I D S WE E K

Your Frozen-mad kids can watch the huge Disney sensation on the big screen, while enjoying a picnic and sing-along session.

Saturday 1 to Monday 31 August.

Admission: Adult £14.50, child three to 15 £10.50.

Wakehurst Place, Ardingly, West Sussex RH17 6TN 0844 858 6767 thelunacinema.com

The annual London theatre initiative returns with more than 40 shows offering free or reduced tickets for children. Look out for a range of activities, on stage and backstage!

KIDS SUNGLASSES

child goes free with a paying adult. Up to two extra Various theatres across the capital. kidsweek.co.uk

Sessions run throughout the summer holidays.

Join a holiday workshop at the Cartoon Museum. Highlights include Manga sessions, Alice in Cartoonland, Superheroes, Caricatures and learning how to create a mini comic strip. Booking is essential.

N OT TI N G H I LL CAR N IVAL

35 Little Russell Street, London WC1A 2HH

Admission: Varies from £10 to £20.

TWO FREE GIFTS

Admission: Depends on show, but generally one half-price children’s tickets can be purchased.

H O LI DAY WO R KS H O P S AT TH E CAR TO O N M U S E U M

SUMMER SPECIAL

SUBSCRIBE TO LITTLE LONDON AND GET

£20

+

WORTH £25

VOUCHER *Direct Debit orders only

Sunday 30 August is children’s day and Bank Holiday Monday 31 August is adults’ day.

Bands take to the streets from around 9am.

Enjoy floats, masquerades, steel bands, plenty of loud music and Caribbean food to sample.

INCLUDES FREE iPAD ACCESS

EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE

Admission: Free.

www.littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/subscribe

0207 580 8155

Notting Hill, London W10 and W11.

01442 820 580 quote code P506LL

cartoonmuseum.org

thelondonnottinghillcarnival.com

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SUNGLASSES AVAILABLE WHILE STOCKS LAST

D I N O S C E N E I NVE S TI GATI O N

WHAT’S ON

S TAR WAR S AT MA DAM E TU S SAU D S

TH E G R E AT R IVE R R AC E

TH E TH R E E LIT TLE P I G S

Saturday 12 September. Starts in the

From Wednesday 5 August to Sunday 6

Open daily, though times vary.

Docklands in the morning and finishes in

September. Performance times vary.

Experience extraordinarily authentic walk-in Star Wars sets and wax figures.

Richmond in the afternoon.

The fairy tale gets a musical reinvention, with Gareth Gates at the West End. Discover how the three pigs become celebrity superstars!

from £21.60 for children and £24.75 for adults.

Marylebone Road, London NW1 5LR 0871 894 3000

Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue,

greatriverrace.co.uk

London W1D 5AY

madametussauds.com/london

0844 482 9676

TH E G R U F FALO F U LL O F S P I C E

Wednesday 1 July to Sunday 6 September.

Until 6 September

Performance times vary.

Kew Gardens is offering up a spicy adventure for the whole family, packed with flavour, interactive installations and exhibitions.

Our favourite monster is coming to the West End. Join Mouse on an adventurous journey through the deep dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical musical adaptation of The Gruffalo.

Admission: See website for details.

Kew Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Admission: From £14.50.

Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB

Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue,

020 8332 5655

London W1D 7ES

kew.org

0844 482 9674

Saturday 29 August to Monday 31 August.

TH E YE AR O F TH E P E N G U I N AT C H E S S I N GTO N The park is open from 10am daily.

Kids will love the new Dreamworks’ show, Penguins Live: Operation Cheezy Dibbles, and there’s a new Penguins of Madagascar ride, too. Then see real-life Humboldt penguins frolic in a brand new enclosure.

Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey KT9 2NE

P L AY DAY 2 015 AT TH E H O R N I MAN

Based on The Dreamsnatcher novel, fans sleep in caravans, solve ancient riddles, learn Romany crafts and cook over open fires.

Wednesday 5 August, 11am to 3.30pm.

Eight, costs £345 per child.

Admission: Free.

Admission: For schoolchildren in Year Four to Year

nimaxtheatres.com

Admission: Included in general entry fee.

gruffalolive.com

TH E D R E AM S NATC H E R E XP E D ITI O N

Admission: £15 to £29.50.

Admission: Free.

Watch Punch and Judy, see Jambs Owls, play giant board games, take part in art and craft activities and explore the wildlife garden.

Kirby House, Berkshire. The group will transfer

Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London

together from London and Cambridge.

Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ

0208 555 1948

020 8699 1872

explorationsociety.co.uk/dreamsnatcher

horniman.ac.uk

0871 663 4477 chessington.com

TOTALLY THAM E S Runs throughout September.

This 30-day spectacular programme of events, will include arts, music, colourful regattas, river races, environmental and educational activities and much more.

Venues along London’s River Thames. totallythames.org

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PHOTOGRAPHY: MIKAEL BUCK, TALL STORIES

Admission: Included in the main admission price,

The Great River Race attracts over 300 international crews and can be best viewed from Richmond Bridge and the South Bank.

FREOrder hol the b E gu your ida es ide y d t fa to est mi ina l y tion s

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Special family offers Resorts with creche and children’s clubs Expert advice, personal service ABTA bonded, family run travel agency Help and advice from the experts, contact us

01279 639600

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Babywear, Nursery Accessories & Children’s Sleepwear

www.mini-la-mode.com

HB_June 2015_Little London_202x129mm_v1.indd 1

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GROUPS & CLASSES

Fun French Lessons for Kids

Little House of Science

Et Patati Patata is a 100% French club offering 100% French fun for children aged one to nine years old. All lessons are led by an experienced native French speaking primary teacher. Set your child on the fast track to becoming bilingual.

FUN AND IMAGINATIVE CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS

SATURDAY MORNING FRENCH SCHOOL Classes take place in Fulham and West Kensington.

Due to high demand, Et Patati Patata is launching a Saturday morning french school in West Kensington alongside their hugely successful morning French School in Fulham.

For two to 13 year olds and suitable for all levels, these lessons are taught in very small groups. Following the French curriculum, children learn to read and write in French.

The class will also study French literature, attend French events and develop free speech.

Book now for September 2015.

Football Coaching At Kiddikicks

Little Maths Toddler and Little House of Science are two fantastic after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps in the world of maths and science that much easier. Little Maths Toddler workshops, for two to four year olds, help to build your child’s confidence with quantities and numbers ranging from one to 10. Meanwhile, tackling that other difficult-to-grasp subject, The Little House of Science workshop, for three to eight years old, introduces new scientific concepts in an age-adjusted way through an exciting mix of discussions, practical demonstrations and scientific experiments.

The very best football coaching for toddlers and children aged from 18 months up to 10 years. Nippers from 18 months, Runners from two and a half years, Racers from three and a half years and Ligasoccer match play from five to 10 years.

The classes are unique as they involve the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Join the fun and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks Football Classes! Parties, privates, holiday classes, nursery and after school sessions also available. Kiddikicks is also available to franchise.

Sign up today to receive your player’s free kit (registration fees apply).

Busy Bakers

Fun, fitness and music

PERFECT PARTY ENTERTAINMENT

WEEKLY CLASSES IN CHISWICK, CHELSEA, KEW, WANDSWORTH, PARSONS GREEN AND SWISS COTTAGE

t: 0800 092 1062 e: info@littlehouseofscience.com littlehouseofscience.com

t: 020 7937 7965 e: info@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk

AFTER-SCHOOL FRENCH LESSONS Lessons take place in Fulham and Balham.

Coming soon to Hampstead, Ealing, Kentish Town.

An after-school French immersion programme for one to nine year olds, lessons take place between 4pm and 5pm. The award-winning after school class is based on a wide range of fun and creative activities with engaging, fun and dynamic lessons. Culture and language will be taught through stories, songs and workshops. Each lesson promises 100% French fun. Register now.

SUMMER DAY CAMPS Dates in July and August for ages three to 12 years old.

Children will explore the sounds, flavours, customs, and cultures with 30 hours French immersion per week. Language will be taught through stories, songs, visits and workshops.

Children will not only improve their French, they will have lots of fun too. t: 07966 893674 e: caroline@etpatatipatata.com etpatatipatata.com

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Are you looking for a fun-filled party or event oozing with baking, making, doing and learning but don’t really have the time or courage to tackle this on your own?

Busy Bakers provides an exciting hands-on experience with food and crafts, all the while giving children memories they’ll never forget.

Whether the entertainment is in the comfort of your own home, or a venue of your choice – the experience is totally bespoke. Workshops, parties, wedding entertainment, bar mitzvahs – small or large, Busy Bakers will provide the baking and craft entertainment for up to 25 children, aged three to 12 years old. t: 07766 135907 e: info@busybakers.com busybakers.co.uk

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Amanda’s Action Club offers unique and stimulating active music sessions for toddlers.

Using their own modern nursery rhymes and versatile props, the classes provide endless interactive activities. Action Club has worked closely with the leading UK early years expert Laura Henry who has linked the programme to the Early Years Foundation Stage.

At Amanda’s Action Club the motto is: ‘We dance, we sing, we learn through the music and most importantly of all, we have fun!’ See the website for further information and to find a class near you. t: 01895 623 999 e: info@amandasactionclub.co.uk amandasactionclub.co.uk

win £300

OF SUNUVA VOUCHERS J

MATILDA WEARS CARDIGAN, £54.97, SCOTCH R’BELLE. TOP £43 MINI RODINI. SKIRT AND TRAINERS MODEL’S OWN.

etting away soon and want your kids to stay safe in the sun? Sunuva, the stylish children’s beachwear brand is offering a competition to win £300 worth of Sunuva vouchers to spend online at sunuva.com.

Made from the highest quality fabric which blocks out 97% of the sun’s harmful rays, Sunuva swimwear is the first of its kind to be validated by the British Skin Foundation and meets strict Australian/NZ guidelines.

Providing the complete travel wardrobe for well-dressed kids, their latest collection showcases a range of unique and exclusively designed prints for boys and girls as well as a matching sibling collection. It’s no wonder some of the world’s most stylish mums, including Victoria Beckham, Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna dress their kids in Sunuva.

To enter visit: littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/competitions

Keep safe in the sun while looking super stylish

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ABI CAMPBELL

STOCKIST INFORMATION

BOUTIQUES ONLINE BOUTIQUE

ONLINE BOUTIQUE

ONLINE BOUTIQUE

THE KID WHO

ANNALIV

LITTLE REMIX

Award-winning online children’s lifestyle and gift store, The Kid Who, tries to do things a little differently. Sourcing products from only the very best contemporary brands and artists working in design right now, the website’s European edge makes it the perfect place to find something a bit more eclectic. Tonnes of great toys, clothes and accessories line the virtual shelves. And if you’re a sucker for interior design, you’ll adore the handmade, Scandi-themed offerings.

With such gorgeously nostalgic designs, it comes as no surprise that Annaliv’s founder grew up in England but spent the holidays in Denmark. The charming Danishinspired prints and cuts tell a story of wistful childhood memories and idyllic wanderings across Scandi-countryside, and can’t fail to win big and little hearts alike. Having designed for the likes of Rachel Riley and Marie-Chantal, founder Anna know exactly what gorgeous childrenswear is.

The shrunken version of Copenhagen’s much sought after women’s label Designers Remix, is all about effortlessly modern style but in miniature sizes. With double-breasted army coats and leather trousers on offer, the collection encourages kids to dress with a little more attitude and to channel that übercool style that the Scandinavians do so well.

For girls aged four to 16 years, the collection is perfect for tiny tots on the playground as well as the fashionista teenager.

thekidwho.eu

annaliv.co.uk

designersremix.com

HOP LIKE A BUNNY

KIDSEN

LUNA AND CURIOUS

Frequented by the more understated among Holland Park’s trendiest families, this little boutique is home to a whole host of super cool but equally relaxed, under-the-radar baby and childrenswear labels. The likes of American Outfitters, Bellerose and edgy Scandi brands such as Soft Gallery and Mini A Ture all come together under one brilliantly fashionforward, child-friendly roof. Its selection of interior products is brilliant, too.

Founded by resident Swede, Corina Papadopoulou and her husband Franco Ofili, this fun and friendly kids’ store has rows of Scandinavian-inspired goodies. It’s a worthwhile visit if you’re looking for something that’s a little more original for your stylish tot, plus we’re huge fans of its mission “to take the hard work out of finding beautiful things for your kids (that don’t cost the earth).” Sounds like our kind of shopping!

This Shoreditch-based store’s appreciation of small, lesser-known brands and eternally stylish dressing makes its line-up of womenswear, childrenswear, baby outfits, beauty, homeware and accessories, a wonderfully quirky emporium. The selection of unique brands includes Marmalade & Mash and What Mother Made, with its vibrant African print dungarees, as well as the more tongue-in-cheek Miniature Knit Shop.

12 Portland Road, W11 4LA hoplikeabunny.co.uk

111 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 3NS kidsen.co.uk

24-26 Calvert Avenue, E2 7JP lunaandcurious.com

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BOUTIQUES

NOTSOBIG

ELIAS AND GRACE

CARAMEL BABY & CHILD

Named after Roald Dahl’s imaginary crocodile, Notsobig brings the life and soul of these childhood tales to the world of fashion.

Unique, fun, and eclectic childrenswear is sourced from around the world, and includes colourful pieces for everyday activities, as well as some special occasionwear. The collection has real character with just the right amount of ‘trendy’ thrown into the mix, making this little store in leafy north London a real gem.

For style conscious parents who want to avoid their little one’s wardrobe looking too ‘cutesy’, Elias and Grace’s collection offers childhood sophistication in bucket-loads.

Designer brands like Chloé and Emile et Ida rub shoulders with Acne and Little Remix to give the quintessentially French style of the collection a touch of cool. The store’s hip elegance has earned it a host of devotees and remains the destination for mini style-setters.

For the ultimate experience in beautifully crafted, on-trend and luxurious children’s clothing visit Caramel Baby & Child. The gorgeous collection caters for babies, all the way up to 12 year olds, and harks back to times gone by, with adorable smock dresses and a smattering of Liberty prints alongside more trendy cuts for everyday dressing. Also pop by for the small, but well-edited, selection of toys and home décor pieces.

31A Highgate High Street, N6 5JT notsobigshop.com

158 Regents Park Road, NW1 8XN eliasandgrace.com

STORES ACROSS LONDON caramel-shop.co.uk

NECK & NECK

OLIVE LOVES ALFIE

THE LITTLE WHITE COMPANY

It’s no surprise that Neck & Neck is Spain’s leading children’s label, everything at the boutique is perfection, down to the smallest detail, and its super-smart, classic collection has already been given the royal nod of approval by the baby trendsetter himself, Prince George. Make like the royals, and head to this lovely boutique to find timeless pieces that will give your little one’s wardrobe a hint of European chic and classic dressing.

Blazing the style trail in the world of children’s retail since 2006, Olive Loves Alfie offers a hand-picked selection of imaginative clothing, interiors, and unique toys for little ones aged newborn to 14 years. Think really fun, brightly-coloured clothing with quirky prints from a good mix of lesser-known brands including Rukka and The Little Tailor. Founder, Ashlyn Gibson, also designs her own pieces – for the cherry on top!

The last word in understated chic, The Little White Company’s immaculate stores are a favourite with stylish mamas looking for the finest-quality clothes, bedding and toys that are still practical and affordable. From gorgeous cashmere jumpers to the cutest pom pom ballet slippers and pure-cotton sleepwear, everything at The Little White Company maintains the simple, elegant aims of the adult collection, but in miniature.

STORES ACROSS LONDON neckandneck.com

84 Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 olivelovesalfie.co.uk

STORES ACROSS LONDON thewhitecompany.com

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INTERVIEW

THE BUSINESS CÉCILE ROEDERER, CO-FOUNDER OF CHILDREN’S ONLINE CONCEPT STORE SMALLABLE, TELLS KATE FINNEY HOW SHE MAKES IT WORK

What inspired you to set up Smallable?

The Parisian concept store Colette was a big inspiration. It’s one of the first boutiques to mix fashion, books, music and accessories, with a very curated selection. Our ambition was to create an e-commerce website that wasn’t just a product catalogue, but also a source of ideas and inspiration.

What are your tips for someone looking to set up an online business?

Today, e-commerce is very developed. A lot of people think that launching an online business is simpler and requires less money, this is not the case. You need a market study, a good business plan, financing to reach a critical size and lots of work and perseverance.

Tell us a bit about family life?

What do you love about living in Paris?

I founded Smallable with my husband, Pierre, in 2008 and we had Charles the next year, so our professional and personal lives are very linked. The offices are five minutes from our apartment and Charles’ school.

I love this city and Le Marais, where I have lived for over 10 years. There are avant-garde boutiques, art galleries, great restaurants, some very nice parks and there’s Marché des Enfants Rouge for a family lunch. We get everywhere by foot or by scooter!

How do you combine it all?

Working as a family allows us flexibility. We are free to organise ourselves as we like, and when one of us is busy, the other one can easily make themselves available.

How does London compare?

I love the charming houses and the large green spaces. It’s very calm, but at the same time, it’s a dynamic city that is very openminded and creative. I love this contrast.

What’s your style when decorating a child’s bedroom?

Up until the age of five, my son’s bedroom was very soft with lots of wood and muted colours. Today, his room is a lot more graphic, with much brighter colours to match his new tastes. The most important thing is to have lots of storage so that the toys don’t take over.

What are your proudest business achievements?

What does the future hold?

Smallable is becoming a concept store for the whole family. We are enlarging to include a range for adults by bringing in new fashion and interiors brands. Also, following the successful launch of our own fashion brand, Hundred Pieces, we are working on the launch of our own interiors brand in 2016. L smallable.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY: SMALLABLE, ISTOCK

Go to Smallable for cool kids' fashion and accessories

I am proud to have brought Smallable to where we are today, and we are still only at the beginning of the adventure.

BOYS & TOMBOYS

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